Guyana Times -- Saturday, January 15, 2022

Guyana receives almost 29,000 doses of J&J vaccine P14

Nationwide coverage from the best news team in Guyana guyanatimesgy.com

Issue No. 4890

THE BEACON OF TRUTH SATURDAY, JANUARY 15, 2022

GPL shuts down Garden of Eden Plant on emergency basis

See story on page 3

PRICE

$100 VAT INCLUDED

WHAT'S INSIDE:

Norton, Harmon to continue talks on Opposition Leader's P9 position

5 charged for brutal assault on Black Bush labourer P10

1100-pound cocaine bust at Orealla

Judge overturns Magistrate’s decision to grant bail to Brazilian P15 nationals

– load-shedding instituted in some areas Prime Minister Mark Phillips in discussion with engineers at the Garden of Eden, East Bank Demerara (EBD) Power Plant on Friday

SWAT Unit member gets $1M bail for killing Essequibo businessman

See story on page 8

14-mth-old toddler Father of 2 killed among 6 COVID in freak accident …865 new infections deaths detected in 24h at Eccles Page 13

PNCR Reg 10 Councillor P16 found dead

861 inmates graduate from ground-breaking courses P12

See story on page 11

GMSA calls for relaxed importation rules to be reviewed See story on page 7

– concerned about lack of leadership at GA-FDD

CANU discovers pistol, P13 ammunition during narcotics operation

2

SATURDAY, JANUARY 15, 2022 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

3 GPL shuts down Garden of Eden Plant on emergency basis NEWS

SATURDAY, JANUARY 15, 2022 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

BRIDGE OPENINGS OPENINGS BRIDGE

The Demerara Harbour Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on:

Saturday, Jan 15 – 13:30h – 15:00h and Sunday, Jan 16 – 03:00h – 04:30h.

The Berbice Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on:

Saturday, Jan 15 – 14:30h – 16:00h and Sunday, Jan 16 – 15:10h – 16:40h.

FERRY SCHEDULE

Parika and Supenaam departure times – 05:00h, 10:00h-12:00h, 16:00h, 18:30h daily

WEATHER TODAY There will be light cloud during the day. Expect partly cloudy skies at night. Temperatures should range between 22 degrees Celsius and 29 degrees Celsius.

Winds: Easterly to North North-Easterly between 1.78 metres and 3.57 metres.

High Tide: 14:57h reaching a maximum height of 2.39 metres.

Low Tide: 08:30h and 21:02h reaching minimum heights of 0.97 metre and 0.8 metre.

WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 12, 2022

LOTTERY NUMBERS B

09 10 14

18 23 28

FREE TICKET

19 Bonus Ball

FRIDAY, JANUARY 14, 2022

DAILY MILLIONS

05 08 11 25 26 LUCKY 3

3

5

5

6

Afternoon Draw

0

0

Evening Draw

DRAW DE LINE

02 04 06 12 13 15 19 SUPER

PAY DAY

PAY DAY

THURSDAY, JANUARY 13, 2022

02 05 08 15 16 13

02 03 05 10 11

5

1 Afternoon Draw

FP Afternoon Draw

3

0 Evening Draw

FP Evening Draw

DISCLAIMER: WE ARE NOT RESPONSIBLE FOR ANY ERRORS IN PUBLICATION. PLEASE CALL THE HOTLINE FOR CONFIRMATION - TEL: 225-8902

COMMODITIES Indicators

US$

Change %

Crude Oil

$86.06/barrel

+1.85

Rough Rice

$262.89/ton

+2.46

London Sugar

$497.30/ton

-1.19

Live Spot Gold

USD Per Ounce

Bid/Ask

$1818.10

$1819.10

Low/High Change

$1814.40 0.00

$1830.20 0.00%

– load-shedding instituted in some areas

T

he Guyana Power and Light Inc (GPL) was forced to shut down its power plant at Garden of Eden, East Bank Demerara (EBD), on Friday to undergo an emergency mechanical inspection at the facility.

Chief Executive Officer of GPL, Bharrat Dindyal explained to reporters on Friday that the heavy fuel which is being used at the plant is getting into the exhaust system.

This prompted officials to shut down the five Wärtsilä generators that only started operating late last year.

“If we continue to operate, there is a chance that the fuel accumulates in the turbocharger, you could have a big explosion. You could destroy the engine, it could kill people in the vicinity so the decision was taken to immediately shut the plant down,” he added.

When contacted, Minister within the Public Works Ministry, Deodat Indar told Guyana Times that, “It’s a matter of safety because if that thing explodes, you’ll have issues… So, it’s better you shut it down and fix it and then see to bring it up back”.

According to the Public Works Minister, with these generators down, there will be some strain on the DemeraraBerbice Interconnected System (DBIS).

“You’re taking off 46.5MW off of the grid, so it will have an impact but we’re trying to make sure we minimise it as far as we can,” he assured.

Already, GPL, in a notice, has indicated that the unavailability of 46.5MW will impact the available generation capacity within the DBIS and result in load-shedding in some areas.

Initially on Friday, the power company disclosed that the affected areas are Garden of Eden to Timehri on the East Bank; Leonora to De Kinderen on the West Coast of Demerara (WCD), and from Boerasiria to Naamryck on the East Bank of Essequibo (EBE). The disruptions were expected between 18:00h and 22:00h.

However, GPL said its engineers will continue to review the company’s available generation capacity against the projected demand over the coming days to determine whether further load-shedding will be required.

But the CEO has cautioned consumers to take the necessary precautions while experiencing these bouts of load-shedding.

Meanwhile, Dindyal and a team of GPL technicians were at the plant on Friday working along with Wärtsilä technicians to oversee the gradual shut down of the five generators. These are highly efficient Wärtsilä 34DF dual-fuel engines, which can utilise heavy fuel oil and natural gas simultaneously, with a 9.3MW capacity each.

Also at the Garden of

Prime Minister Brig (Ret’d) Mark Phillips with GPL CEO Bharrat Dindyal and other officials at the Garden of Eden power plant on Friday evening

Eden plant was Prime Minister, Brigadier (Ret’d) Mark Phillips, who is responsible for the energy sector.

He praised engineers who detected the issue early on and prevented a potential catastrophe.

“They are the ones who operate and monitor these new generators, and they are the ones who were able to feedback management as to some of the observations that they saw in operating,” he noted.

PM Phillips added, “I want the people of Guyana to understand that this [shut down] is a safety precaution and is necessary that we shut

down these plants and we do further checks. So, we may have some load-shedding but as we go through the checks and satisfy ourselves, that is, the GPL technicians working with the Wärtsilä management and technicians… and they rectify the problem, we will [then] move to a point where we can bring back onstream the 46.5MW.” According to the Prime Minister, this process to diagnose and address the source of the issue can take days or even weeks. This, he explained, is because the generators would take some time to cool down, possibly days, before the technicians can

start their inspections.

In the meanwhile, the old plant at the Garden of Eden location will be put into use to boost the DBIS capacity.

That plant has a generating capacity of some 25MW. At a ‘soft commissioning’ when the five engines were powered up for the first time in August last year for a test run, the GPL CEO had explained that when the system is under stress, issues such as leaks could arise.

Finland-based Wärtsilä is running and operating the $10 billion state-of-the-art dual-fuel power plant. But the operation and maintenance (O&M) agreement also caters for the Wärtsilä technical team to train local personnel.

Only last July, however, there was an explosion at the one of the transformers at the old Garden of Eden plant.

GPL had explained that a 16.7 MVA transformer at the EBD facility caught on fire resulting in all power generating units at that site shutting down. The loss of the plant’s 27MW caused a cascading effect, disrupting service to customers on the DemeraraBerbice Interconnected System.

4

guyanatimesgy.com

SATURDAY, JANUARY 15, 2022

Views Editor: Tusika Martin News Hotline: 231-8063 Editorial: 231-0544, 223-7230, 223-7231, 225-7761 Marketing: 231-8064 Accounts: 225-6707 Mailing address: Queens Atlantic Investment Estate Industrial Site, Ruimveldt, Georgetown Email: news@guyanatimesgy.com, marketing@guyanatimesgy.com

Urgent need for more recycling

T

he issue of recycling is becoming a major concern for both the general public and the economy. Scientific research has suggested that, due to the lifestyle patterns of citizens, the earth’s natural resources are being depleted too quickly to sustain a healthy balance. The earth’s natural resources are being consumed at a rate that reinforces the idea that we are living for today, and future generations will be paying for the consequences that result from our lifestyle choices.

For years now, calls for citizens here to dispose of their waste in a responsible manner have fallen on deaf ears, and the build-up of garbage in and around the city continues to be repeated.

Governments and businesses all over the world are realising how serious the problem is, and are taking steps towards putting policy mechanisms in place to ensure that the environment is protected from various forms of pollution.

Recycling, along with reducing consumption, has proven to be an effective way to counter the damage we have been doing to the earth for centuries.

A major part of recycling relates to how best we can recycle much of what we use, instead of turning it into unusable waste.

For the sake of emphasis, recycling is important as a means of reducing poisonous emissions into the atmosphere, and also to postpone depletion of our natural resources.

Guyana has indeed taken some time to get “on board”, while many companies and individuals in other parts of the world are improving their recycling habits by coming up with more ways to reduce and reuse what they use. In essence, while there has been much talk about the need to recycle certain products to save our environment from further damage, in a practical sense, the concept has not as yet taken much root here.

Only a handful of companies have shown that they are really serious about moving in this direction. For example, in a bid to support the efforts to sustain and maintain a clean and healthy environment through the provision of proper disposal mechanisms and technology, one local company had launched a line of bio-degradable products called Eco Pak. The Eco Pak products consist of bio-degradable table wares, including bowls, boxes and cups which are all environmentally friendly products because of the materials and the process utilised to manufacture them.

The PPP Government had, in the past, made an offer of tax-free concessions to individuals and businesses willing to invest and set up recycling plants for plastics and Styrofoam.

This was viewed as a good start, and from all indications, a few companies had expressed an interest in taking up the offer.

However, we are not certain how far these companies have actually gone ahead with actual implementation of the project ideas.

That being said, if we are serious about maintaining a healthy and clean environment, consumers must demand that businesses engage in practices that are more eco-friendly. For example, consumers must be encouraged to purchase from companies that manufacture more eco-friendly products.

As part of efforts to spread the message of recycling, comprehensive education and public awareness campaigns would need to be carried out, using every available means.

Following this, the authorities should explore setting up recycling centres across the country, since it makes no sense to preach about recycling if the necessary infrastructural support system is not present.

In addition to its positive impacts on the environment, recycling brings in a lot of money for many countries.

Companies make huge sums from basically utilising the materials that could otherwise have been thrown away.

As this publication has previously said, we believe there is a need for lifestyle changes among our citizens, and it would be very helpful if the schools, religious organisations and local Neighbourhood Democratic Councils and municipalities in every region start the conversation with citizens about recycling. This should be done with the direct involvement of the decision-makers. Certainly, everyone prefers products that are manufactured in an eco-friendly manner, and wants a better, cleaner and healthier environment.

Photographers have been flocking to see "plug holes" dramatically overflowing at a reservoir in the Derbyshire Peak District, Greater Manchester, England. The two holes - technically known as shaft spillways - are designed to regulate water levels when Ladybower Reservoir becomes full (PAUL OF THE PEAK)

Critiques of the Cybercrime Bill Dear Editor, Cybersecurity is an essential element in a nation-state's national security strategy. Cybersecurity impacts the lives of each citizen in everyday activities. The impact results from increased use and improved information and communication technology (ICT), and several international bodies recommend developing national cybersecurity strategies to protect ICT infrastructure.

Those recommendations include garnering Government support, implementing a legal framework, and considering the protection of civil liberties.

The Organization of American States (OAS) supports the need for Government support, and agrees with the above recommendations. The OAS partners with several countries in Latin America and the Caribbean to develop their legal framework and cybersecurity strategies. These developments are accomplished through a working group focused on Ministers and Attorneys-General of member countries. As a member, Guyana participates in developing a legal framework to combat cyber-crime and foster international cooperation.

In 2013, Guyana responded to an initial questionnaire for the Eighth Meeting of the Working Group on CyberCrime. The focus was on legislation, international corporation, national efforts, cybercrime prosecutions, and training. Guyana confirmed that it was a criminal act to intercept network communication and possess child pornography illegally. However, the country did not criminal-

ise illegal access, data interference, system interference, device misuse, computer-related forgery, computer-related fraud, copyright infringements, and other applicable cybercrimes. At that time, the country did not prosecute any individual, and they stated that there were no difficulties with persecutions.

Guyana’s former APNU/ AFC Government implemented The Cyber Crime Bill (2018), including all the questionnaire elements developed by the Working Group on Cyber-Crime. The elements reflected the consideration and work of the group in the context of a legal framework. Guyana extended this to include "Offenses of sedition" and "Using a computer system to coerce, harass, intimidate, among other such languages a person," which questions the appropriateness of civil liberties’ protections. The decision to develop laws in response to external accountabilities augured well for the nation. However, the Government created an ethical dilemma for interpreting offences of sedition and using a computer to coerce.

Description of the Offences

The Cyber Crime Bill (2018) contains an article, Article 18 (1), that states a person commits sedition if they publish media that creates contempt towards the Government. This offence is supported by language that a person is guilty of using a computer to advocate a Government change or commit treason. The clause also includes language that offers protection to the President, Prime Minister, and Government Ministers from

critique within the sovereign territory - digital borders. The law attempts to include individuals residing in and out of the country, and prescribes imprisonment for five years.

The Cyber Crime Bill (2018) contains another article, Article 19 (1), that states it is a crime to use a computer to coerce, humiliate, stalk, harass, among other such acts another person. The article includes language that it is criminal to publish vulgar, profane, and lewd media that creates emotional distress.

The offence also includes using a computer system to extort, cause public ridicule, and hatred to a person or group. This offence includes a fine of five million dollars and imprisonment for three years.

The National Fact Pattern

Guyana is a multi-ethnic country with people sharing opposing political and different religious beliefs. Transparency Institute Guyana Inc. agrees with several elements of the Bill: cyberbullying, child porn, revenge porn, blackmail, and copyright infringement.

However, there is an assault on the freedom of expression in Article 18 (1). The sedition language is very subjective, because the feelings of disloyalty towards the Government cannot be measured. The Betrayal Trauma Theory and how an affected individual perceives it highlight the problems of concluding an individual’s lived experience, "particularly in the face of social pressures."

There is a similarity between Article 18 and Article 19. Although it is criminal to harass and intimidate an individual, there is a thin

line between freedom of expression and the law's subjectivity. In recent years, social media has provided a platform to express dissatisfaction against people, companies, and specific groups.

The Government could use these articles to control dissident narratives. According to Transparency Institute Guyana Inc., there is no protection for an individual who makes a social media post with any provocative statement about the President.

There are exceptions outlined in subsection four of the Bill that provides a restrictive structure for criticising the Government.

Resolution of the Issue

The sedition clause is an attempt to legislate uncommon respect for Government officials. The values of individualism versus collectivism, high versus low power distance, and high versus low uncertainty avoidance describe this misaligned norm.

There are several doctrines for improving cybersecurity.

These doctrines include prevention, risk management, and deterrence through accountability. In Guyana's case, the Cyber Crime Bill (2018) also fails to prioritise the nation's economic and security concerns. Further analysis demonstrates the debilitating conditions within which organisations such as the media operate in the country. Consequently, policy-makers must take an holistic approach and create a homogeneous environment for public-private partnerships, to promote economic growth and national security.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 5

guyanatimesgy.com

SATURDAY, JANUARY 15, 2022

5

You can send your letters with pictures to: Guyana Times, Queens Atlantic Investment Estate Industrial Site, Ruimveldt, Georgetown, Guyana or letters@guyanatimesgy.com

Intergenerational equity is Guyana’s Natural Resources Fund Act substantial and protected in NRF

Dear Editor, Opponents of the Natural Resource Fund (NRF) Act 20 of 2021 have referred disparagingly to this piece of historic legislation as a” thieving one”, much to the astonishment of the Government and many analysts. It appears that this resistance -whether real or staged - was prompted mainly because of an improper understanding of the structure and operations of the Natural Resource Fund.

Some critics have even gone further by insisting that, under the existing NRF formula, the Government would leave no funds for intergenerational equity and emergency.

While these assertions are misleading, and could be dismissed as political polemics and platitudes, it is obvious that the NRF funding formula is not properly explained and understood. Critics impute sinister motives to its design and operation. To allay their anxiety or fear, it is important that the NRF’s structural and operational rationale be explained also in the wider context of provisions of the NRF Act. The management of the NRF is the responsibility of the Board of Directors, while the Public Accountability and Oversight Committee is responsible for oversight (monitor, evaluation), and the Investment Committee is responsible for advising on the investment mandate. The Bank of Guyana is responsible for the operational management of the fund, while all oil revenues are deposited into the Consolidated Fund, and any withdrawal must be approved by Parliament. There are also rigid reporting and audit requirements to allow for transparency and accountability.

The NRF formula allows the Government to draw down for expenditure on physical and social infrastructure projects: 100% on the first (US)$500 million (meaning a withdrawal of (US)$500million), 75% for the second (US)$500 million (meaning withdrawal of (US)$375 million); 50% for the third (US)$500 million (meaning a withdrawal of (US)$250 million); 25% for the fourth

(US)$500 million (meaning a withdrawal of (US)$ 125 million); 5% for the fifth (US)$500 million, (meaning a withdrawal of (US)$25 million); and 3% on the excess for the first (US)$2.5 billion (meaning a withdrawal of (US)$ 128,349,060).

Raw data for this analysis allow for the computation of crude estimates on oil production and crude oil prices. These are neither Exxon nor Government estimates, but they have been computed from information gathered from several sources. In computing estimates for the period 2022 to 2026, assumptions were made on oil production and oil prices. It is known that oil prices are volatile and are not always determined by market forces (supply and demand), but by strategic considerations. Certain assumptions were made in the computation of estimates. (I) The average price of crude oil is (US)$ 80 per barrel. (ii) There could also be equipment downtime: one day per month is calculated for this loss in production.

(III) Guyana’s share of profit oil (12.5%) is paid in oil; therefore, costs (like freight, commission, etc.) are incurred for the sale of oil. This factor is included in the estimates. (iv) In making these crude estimates, due cognisance was given to the growing movement towards alternative sources of energy and the progressive reduction in the use of fossil fuels. (v) The Government also receives funds for flaring, but the amounts (though small) are not included. The table below provides an illustration on how the NRF works.

Draw Down

NRF

Draw Down Draw Down

Parameter First Second Third Fourth Fifth

Fund in million USD 500 500 500 500 500

% 100% 75% 50% 25% 5%

Amount $500,000,000 $375,000,000 $250,000,000 $125,000,000 $25,000,000

3% 20.70% 79.30%

$128,349,060 $1,403,349,060

Any Amount in Excess of first $2.5 billion 4278.30 Total $6,778,302,000 Total left in NRF $5,374,952,940

For a five-year period, 2022 to 2026, based on projected oil production figures and at an average cost of (US)$ 80 per barrel, Guyana could earn

Critiques of the...

Areas of Improvement

The applicability of the Tallinn Manuals to South Africa's national policies. The country attempts to address the issue of cyber-crime by developing similar cybercrime laws. However, Ramluckan (2019) identifies the criticisms of the Cybercrime Bill and the limited focus on national organisations and penalties for violations.

Specifically, the inapplicability of the jus in bello and jus ad bellum to the country's laws and progress in this domain. As a result, the narrow focus on misaligned concerns does not adequately secure the country.

The Working Group on Cybercrime focuses more on the international corpora-

(US)$6.778 billion, of which 18.5% represents royalty and 81.5% represents Guyana’s share of profit oil. Under the funding formula, the Government could draw down (US)$1.403 billion (which represents 20.7% of total oil revenues). Thus, contrary to the fear being expressed by critics, 79.3% (or (US)$ 7,166 per capita) of the Natural Resource Fund would remain in the Consolidated Fund for intergenerational equity and emergency. If oil prices rise, and if production expands as projected, the total revenue would also increase, but if the opposite happens, the total revenue would decline.

The (US)$18 million signing bonus was not included in these calculations, since there is no information on the disposition of this fund. Also, the gas-to-shore pipeline is likely to be a private enterprise project, so this was excluded from the estimates.

Based on estimated production figures of 750,000 barrels per day from 2026 onwards, it would take more than 30 more years for oil extraction to become depleted (by 2060). The estimates also indicate that Exxon and partners would have recovered (cost) of (US)446 billion by 2026.

At a general information level, it is noted that once the cost recovery period (prospecting and exploration) ends, Guyana's share of profit oil would increase substantially.

(It was not possible to identify the cost recovery period).

Finally, the main idea of this letter is to provide readers, including critics, with a better insight or understand-

ing on how the NRF is structured, and how it would work.

Sincerely, Dr Tara Singh

FROM PAGE 4

tion, which member countries furnish into cybercrime laws. Guyana's Cybercrime Bill conforms to the group's intentions, but extends it to include articles that violate ethical principles such as civil liberty. National lawmakers miss the importance of cybersecurity strategies which support national laws through a uniform framework.

The Doctrine of Deterrence Through Accountability affects desired behaviour and considers accepted norms.

For Guyana to foster a superior vision that is furnished based on national, international and sovereign cybersecurity needs, there must be a socio-technical systems’ approach to improving education, policy, and technology.

Cybersecurity is an essential element in a nation-state's national security strategy because it impacts citizens' lives in everyday activities. Guyana's Cyber Crime Bill (2018) begins to address the cybersecurity challenges, such as cybercrime. However, the Bill includes articles that are not consistent with the intentions of the Working Group on Cybercrime and international norms. The Bill fails to address the importance of civil liberties as an element of national cybersecurity strategy; besides, it does not adequately address the myriad of challenges – present and future.

Thank you, Dr Dustin Fraser

Dear Editor, Another media ran a frontpage story that “PPP/C natural resource law no different from APNU+AFC in relation to powers” (Jan 9) quoting Prof Tarron Khemraj.

His analysis is not accurate. Prof Khemraj should re-examine the new NRFA, and he would notice significant differences from the coalition’s.

In his comparison of the NRF of the coalition and PPPC, Dr. Khemraj errs in stating they are not different.

There are major differences.

The new NRFA is a drastic improvement over the coalition’s. the PPPC provides for greater transparency and accountability in the spending of the oil money. As an illustration, instead of the Minister of Finance being empowered as under the coalition, the Parliament is now empowered to oversee the fund. A Board of Directors has been

empowered to administer the fund. The President would appoint the Board on a recommendation after consultation with the Private Sector and the Public, and must meet certain requirements.

But regardless of which party is in Government, the coalition NRF and the PPPC NRF, the ruling party has the majority on the board. That is how a democracy is governed.

There are other major differences. Under the new NRFA, there is an Oversight Committee, just like under the coalition’s, but reduced from 22 (persons) to nine. Their appointments are made from the religious bodies, Private Sector, labour unions, and the professions.

It is the Public Accountability and Oversight Committee responsible for non-governmental oversight.

Parliament would scrutinise spending. Money cannot be withdrawn without parlia-

mentary approval, and how the money will be spent will be queried in Parliament by the Public Accounts Committee and the entire body.

Under the coalition, the amount of money to be withdrawn was not clear. With the new NRF, the amount to be withdrawn is clear. There is a sliding scale-specific formula on how much money will be withdrawn annually. Over time, a smaller percentage of money is withdrawn and the amount in the fund grows for a rainy day.

Overall, there are major differences between the NRFAs of the coalition and the PPP. The PPPC’s NRFA seems more transparent and subjected to greater accountability, with less Ministerial and Government control.

Yours truly, Shriram Ketwaru

The future's looking good for Guyana

Dear Editor, The World Bank, in its latest Global Economic Prospects, projected that Guyana’s economy would grow by some 49.7 percent in 2022. This is staggering, and is worth a big shout from all of us here. According to the Finance Head, Dr. Ashni Singh, this anticipated economic growth comes as no surprise, given the Government’s work to boost investor confidence.

To really grasp the enormity of Guyana’s projected financial well-being, I need to contextualise a few things. First, the International Monetary Fund, the IMF, suggested that the global economy shrank by 4.4% in 2020. The organisation described the decline as the worst since the Great Depression of the 1930s. The only major economy to grow in 2020 was China; it registered a growth of 2.3%. The IMF adds that “We see the world economy growing by 5.7% through the end of 2021. We expect growth to slow to 4.6% in 2022.”

Secondly, the World Bank has cut its forecast for global economic growth in 2022, saying that COVID-19 flareups, supply chain shortages, and waning Government support have resulted in a “pronounced slowdown” of the recovery from the pandemic.

So, no one can doubt how well Guyana is beginning to fare.

According to Finance Minister Dr. Ashni Singh, this kind of optimism, based on real figures, is a result of the work that the Government has put in to creating an investor-friendly environment.

He detailed, “We are pleased to see the positive revision in the World Bank’s outlook for Guyana. This is good news, but we are not surprised. This is, in fact, to be expected, given our government’s strong policy stance as it relates to economic growth, to investment, to job creation, and income generation for the benefit of all Guyanese.”

Let us be reminded that when the Administration belatedly took office in August 2020, a lot of work was necessary, as the country was in dire straits, but as Dr. Singh pointed out, financial jurisprudence prevailed, resulting in several immediate interventions “…aimed at stimulating economic activity, including injecting liquidity in the economy through the COVID-19 cash grant, reduction of taxes, and increased public expenditure in critical infrastructure projects were undertaken.” All these have paid great dividends. So, for the Minister, there is no big surprise in Guyana’s high rating, as “what we are seeing now is the result of measures and interventions such as these.”

One more thing, and that

is, right in the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, unprecedented floods hit Guyana, to the point that “… we are still grappling with the tail end of the effects of the severe and devastating floods that we had in 2021…” the Minister aptly pointed out.

I expect now that with what has so far unfolded since August 2020, Guyanese can be very upbeat. Why? The Government promises to remain resolutely committed to ensuring that the economy achieves strong growth; and, very importantly, strong growth that is translated into business opportunities and job creation and income for Guyanese people.

Yours truly, Attiya Baksh

6

SATURDAY, JANUARY 15, 2022

Page

Foundation ◄

Customary Units of Length The customary units of length (that is the units commonly used) are inches (in); feet (ft); yards (yd); and miles (mi).

1 foot = 12 in

1 yard = 3 ft

1 mile = 1760 yd You can compare these units to each other.

Example: How many feet are in a mile?

Step 1: You know that there are 3 feet in a yard, so multiply the number of yards x 3.

Step 2: 1760 x 3 = 5280. There are x feet in a mile.

The standard units of measurement that should be used in Guyana are the metric measurements. It is necessary to know customary units of length to convert them to metric units.

Remember: You do not have to add the plural s when you abbreviate units of measurement.

Exercises: Convert 1) 18.25 feet is how many inches?

2) 7 miles equals how many inches?

3) 6 inches is how many yards?

4) 39 inches in how many feet?

5) 20.5 yards is how many feet?

6) 6.75 yards is how many inches?

7) 17.25 miles in how many yards?

8) 9000 yards is how many miles?

Materials:

Toilet paper roll Wax paper Rubber band

Instructions:

Cut or tear a piece of wax paper big enough to cover the end of the toilet paper roll.

Use the rubber band to secure the wax paper over the end of the toilet paper roll.

Hum into your Crazy Kazoo and enjoy the cool and unique sound.

Practice humming songs with your Crazy Kazoo.

How it works:

The wax paper vibrates as you hum in the Crazy Kazoo to produce a cool buzzing sound.

Make this a science project:

What happens if you use a different sized tube? What happens if you make different types of sounds in the tube? What happens if you use different types of coverings over the end of the tube?

Having the right mindset keeps you on the path of success

WORD SEARCH

NEWS

7

SATURDAY, JANUARY 15, 2022 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

GMSA calls for relaxed importation rules to be reviewed – concerned about lack of leadership at GA-FDD

T

he Guyana Manufacturing and Services Association (GMSA) is calling for a review of the rules that govern the importation of food and other products, which were previously relaxed following the outcry of some local importers.

In a statement on Friday, the GMSA reminded of the crucial role that the Government Analyst Food and Drug Department (GA-FDD) plays in maintaining the nation’s health and well-being as a regulatory body on the importation of food, drugs and other like materials into Guyana.

Against this backdrop, the Association “…request that the relaxing of the rules mandated by law regarding the importation of food and other products into Guyana, be re-examined.”

The GMSA pointed out that while it had been actively engaging and lobbying the Ministry of Health, under which the GMSA falls, to relax the importation provisions outlined in the law, this arrangement is not going as planned.

“We are concerned that the agreement created which allows for the importation of items on the basis of documentation from a non-regulatory body in

Florida, is not working as was initially intended since we continue to see questionable items imported into the country based on documentation from the said body in Florida,” the missive detailed.

That non-regulatory body is Enterprise Florida, which is a non-profit, public-private entity that certifies products for export on behalf of the Florida Department of Health and the Florida Department of Agriculture.

Initially, the GA-FDD had refused to accept certificates of Free Sale issued

by Enterprise Florida for goods being imported from that State. Instead, it demanded certificates from the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA), which no longer issues such documents. That function is now being carried out by Enterprise Florida.

As such, following an outcry by some local importers and the intervention of the Government, the GAFDD eventually relaxed its position last year and started accepting the Enterprise Florida-issued certificates but only for goods that are being bought from wholesalers in Florida. Importers who are sole distributors of goods are still required to

GMSA President Rafeek Khan

obtain FDA certificates for their shipments.

But now, the GMSA says that some “questionable” items have been imported in Guyana with certificates from Enterprise Florida.

Hence, the Association’s call for the use of documentation from Enterprise Florida to be reviewed.

“While we are cognizant of the many challenges due to the COVID-19 pandemic and the issues associated with the global supply chain, we should not compromise on the nation’s health and well-being. The Standards regarding the origin, labelling and naming of local distributors on labels where necessary is very clear, how-

ever, this standard is being flouted in some cases, while our sister Caricom countries rigidly enforce this,” the Association contended.

According to the GMSA, these actions are contradictory to the spirit of the recently passed Local Content Act. To this end, it also called on the Health Minister, Dr Frank Anthony, to ensure the compliance of rules, regulations, and standards and to empower the GA-FDD to so do.

Meanwhile, the Association also expressed concerns about the local Food and Drug Department apparently being without a head in the absence of its Director, Marlon Cole.

Guyana Times understands that Cole is currently on leave. When contacted on Friday, he explained that he had 113 days’ accumulated vacation leave and was asked since November 2021 to go on leave. He indicated that he is scheduled to return in March.

Nevertheless, the GMSA said it has been monitoring the recent developments at the Department and believes that its current state could reverse all the progress made over the years to maintain the health and well-being of the country as the premier regulatory body

GA-FDD Head Dr Marlan Cole

for the importation of food, drugs and other such materials.

“Over the last few years, the GA-FDD had made significant strides towards delivering on its mandate to the nation. The GMSA, through the Agro-Processing Subsector Chairman, indicated that there is a seeming lack of leadership as a result of the Director’s absence, which could call this quality reputation of GA-FDD into question, hinder progress and also raises concerns of transparency and accountability,” the Association asserted in its statement on Friday.

On this note, it urged that the Health Ministry’s Food and Drug Department be empowered to carry out its mandate independently and effectively.

8 NEWS

SATURDAY, JANUARY 15, 2022 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

IN THE COURTS SWAT Unit member gets $1M bail for killing Essequibo businessman

Dead: Orin Boston

P

olice Constable Sherwin Peters, who is attached to the SWAT Unit within the Guyana Police Force (GPF), was on Friday charged with the lesser count of manslaughter almost four months after he allegedly shot and killed Essequibo businessman, Orin Boston.

The 32-year-old Joint Services rank, who was unrepresented by counsel, was granted $1million bail by Magistrate Esther Sam. He attended the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts, where he made a virtual appearance before Magistrate Sam at the Anna Regina Magistrate’s Court.

Peters of Linden, Region 10 (Upper DemeraraBerbice), was not required to plead to the indictable charge which alleged that on September 15, 2021, he unlawfully killed Boston, 29, a father of two.

Sherwin Peters (black jersey) being escorted into the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts by Police ranks

He is due back in court on February 1. Attorneyat-Law Nigel Hughes is appearing in the matter in the interest of Boston’s family.

On Thursday, the Guyana Police Force (GPF) received advice from the Chambers of the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) to charge Peters.

The GPF had previously refuted assertions that Boston’s death was an act of murder.

Boston, of Hoppy Street Dartmouth, Essequibo Coast, Region Two (Pomeroon-Supenaam), was shot during a search of his home in the wee hours of the morning of September 15, 2021.

He was reportedly shot with a .223 calibre rifle, which is the standard

weapon issued to the SWAT team. Following the incident, Police Commissioner Nigel Hoppie had instructed the Force’s Office of Professional Responsibility (OPR) to conduct a thorough investigation.

After the probe was completed, the file was sent to the Chairman of the Police Complaints Authority (PCA), former High Court Judge William Ramlall, to be reviewed.

Thereafter, it was sent to the DPP Chambers.

The Top Cop and Crime Chief Wendell Blanhum had visited Boston’s family and promised to leave no stone unturned in the probe. Meanwhile, Home Affairs Minister Robeson Benn had visited the grieving family, during which he expressed disappoint-

ment at the tragic incident.

He had assured the family that the Government is committed to having an impartial investigation done. “Police killing should never occur, only in extreme circumstances, where a Police life is in danger, or in a bid to save civilian lives. Our method should only occur as a process of lawful approaches,” the Home Affairs Minister had expressed.

As word of Boston’s death spread in his community, angry friends, relatives, and villagers took to the streets to vent their disapproval. They hauled fallen trees, old tyres, and derelict cars to the middle of the main access road and began their fiery protest which lasted for several days.

Eye pass...

W

…from Trini businesses e hear a lot about “American Exceptionalism” - the insistence by the Yanks that they’re not only different from other nations, but in fact are downright SUPERIOR to them. The ordinary rules of the game of international order don’t apply to them.

Well, just like we have people who strut around like “Little Caesars” at the personal level, there are dinky nations that throw their weight around in their little ponds. Enter Trinidad, when it comes to the detritus of the “British” Caribbean.

They’ve always acted like they were better than the rest of us – especially the small islands after independence, and us after Burnham wrecked our economy and everything else. Just because they had oil, and were under the Brits and then the Eric Williams regime. He withdrew from the WI Federation with his famous quip - “1 from 10 leaves naught!” And this was mainly because he felt Trinidad would have to “carry” the “Little 8” small islands. But recently, when the UNC came to power with PM Kamla Bissessar, she snarkily informed the rest of the Caribbean that “Trinidad isn’t your ATM machine”!

But the snotty treatment wasn’t just on a Governmentto-Government level. Our traders, who flocked their stores - paying good money for their goods - were treated like dogs at Piarco airport. And don’t let your Eyewitness get started how ordinary Trinis treated the Guyanese who tried to make a living there from the eighties!! Dogs at least get kennels and scraps from the table!

But even in those hard guava days, Trini companies like Geddes Grant and Massy were allowed to operate in Guyana, to suck out our scarce funds. Massy especially was allowed to spread its tentacles into all sorts of activities, so that as the Trinidad economy stuttered after its oil started to run out, Guyana became a cash cow. With the discovery of oil and its extraction, these Trini companies used their head start not only to service and supply the floating oil rigs in the Atlantic, but our local market!!

Have you noticed the Massy supermarkets sprouting up all over the country like Jumbie Umbrellas? Well, they’re jumbies all right - and they’ll be running our local groceries out of business within a decade; if we don’t do something about it, that is! But they’re just the visible tip of what’s a veritable iceberg of Trini businesses that have cornered the market in so many other oil-related business areas - transportation (land, sea and air); services; fabrication; and, as mentioned, even food supply!!

Now, you’d think that the old Trini firms like Massy would temper the aggressiveness of the new Trini carpetbaggers, but no.

THEY just made the unkindest cut of all! …and Massy’s raas pass That’s right! Not satisfied with all the money it’s been raking in, Massy President and Group CEO issued a statement - purportedly on behalf of some “Caricom Private Sector Organisation” (CPSO) - that our Local Content Act (LCA) violated the Revised Treaty of Chaguaramas!! Meaning we shouldn’t be specifying minimum percentages of local participation in the areas of business identified by the LCA that’ll allow us to develop at long last!!

Can you believe this chutzpah?? Since when could any Guyanese company compete in anything that Trinis supplied - in Trinidad - before being slapped down by a welter of non-tariff regulations?? But almost unbelievably, TRINIDAD HAS A LOCAL CONTENT LAW that prioritised local businesses for decades!! Remember the Trini LC expert who advised on our own LCA?? The second rasspass is that CPSO isn’t known to any of the local business organisations, and appeared to have slipped under their radar to be recognised by Caricom!!

This confounded nonsense must stop immediately. Or we’re outta Caricom for our Continental Destiny!! …and jagabats The scatological utterances over social media are getting out of hand. At last, one Opposition MP spewer was charged under their own cyber-crime law for calling a male GECOM official a “jagabat” - Trini slang for “a loose woman…a slut”!!

Readers are invited to send their comments by email to eye@guyanatimesgy.com

NEWS

9

SATURDAY, JANUARY 15, 2022 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Norton, Harmon to continue talks on Opposition Leader’s position

PNC Leader Aubrey Norton

O

pposition Leader Joseph Harmon is expected to facilitate further discussions with the newly-elected Leader of the People’s National Congress Reform (PNCR), Aubrey Norton to iron out the Opposition Leader’s position in the National Assembly.

The Central Executive Committee (CEC) of the PNC had decided that its newly-elected Leader, Aubrey Norton would have to sit in the National Assembly and hold the post of the country’s Opposition Leader. This now means that Aubrey Norton would replace Joseph Harmon as Leader of the Opposition.

While discussions this

week between the two did not result in any concrete decision, Norton was tightlipped during a press conference on Friday, stating that it is an internal matter that will be deliberated on.

After this upcoming round of discussions, a decision will be announced.

“It’s an internal matter and we will discuss it internally. Once we would have completed those discussions, I will inform the press,” the new PNC Leader told media operatives.

Until then, he outlined that the party’s work is progressing.

“Our work is going. It’s going in the right pace and we will continue to do our work…I think I have been

elected by the membership of the People’s National Congress Reform. They’re comfortable with the work I’m doing. I will continue to do the work and I’ll be guided by party leadership as we proceed.”

Last week, it was reported that Harmon has indicated that PNC must now follow the protocols of A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) in which it is a coalition member, and take its concerns to the executive body.

As it stands, former President and former leader of PNC, David Granger is the Representative of the List of Candidates for APNU/AFC. Granger is also the Chairman of APNU while Harmon, on the other hand is the General Secretary.

But just last week, Harmon, who lost his bid for the PNCR leadership to Norton, had insisted that he should remain Opposition Leader.

However, the Opposition Leader noted that he would only step down if his presence in the National Assembly hampers the APNU/AFC’s parliamentary performance.

The PNCR is the leading party in the A Partnership for National Unity faction of the Opposition and holds the majority stake in the coalition arrangement with

Opposition Leader Joseph Harmon

the Alliance For Change.

In addition to losing his contest for the party’s leadership, Harmon was also not elected to any of the Central Executive Committee seats of the PNCR. In fact, he was hoping to be co-opted unto the party’s executive as was done in the past.

Meanwhile, in a statement on Friday evening, APNU said that in 2011 at the birth of the APNU, a collective decision was made as to who would be Head of the List, adding that in 2015 a collective decision

was made as to who would be head of the list when the Alliance for Change coalesced with APNU. According to APNU, if there are issues or concerns that need to be addressed, any member of the partnership or coalition knows the method that should be used in addressing those issues or concerns.

The members of the APNU, the statement noted, would therefore expect that all members, in keeping with the proper and ethical norms, would bring

their positions on matters before the APNU Executive for consensus and agreement rather than making public pronouncements on matters that cannot be decided upon by any one party.

Meanwhile, with the new leadership of the party elected at the December 2021 Congress and Norton now heading to Parliament, a shake-up amongst the current cohort of Opposition Members of Parliament is likely – something which Harmon does not believe should happen. He had told reporters recently that the Opposition’s current crop of MPs are doing a good job, hence no need for a recall.

But Norton subsequently explained that the party’s Central Executive will have to discuss this issue of recalling Opposition members in the National Assembly.

However, changes to the line-up of Opposition parliamentarians would have to be done by the Representative of the party’s List. David Granger, who Norton replaced as party leader, currently holds that post.

10 NEWS

SATURDAY, JANUARY 15, 2022 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

5 charged for brutal assault on Black Bush labourer

T

he five men accused of severely beating a 29-year-old Black Bush Polder, Corentyne, Berbice, Region Six (East Berbice-Corentyne) labourer, have been charged and remanded to prison. They were charged with inflicting grievous bodily harm.

The incident took place last Sunday at Johanna South, Black Bush Polder.

Those charged are Zameer Alli called “Rayan”, 22, a fisherman; Ameer Alli called “Marlon”, 23, a labourer; Devindra Nandlall called “Buddy”, 30, a construction worker; Balraj

From left: Devindra Rambarran, Balraj Sakichand, Zameer Alli, Khemraj Sakichand, and Ameer Ali

Sakichand called “Ravin”, 28, a rice farmer and Khemraj Sakichand called “Saki”, a 30-year-old fisherman - all of Port Mourant, Corentyne, Berbice.

The men appeared virtually before Senior Magistrate Alex Moore. They were not required to plead to the joint indictable charge and were remanded to prison until February 1, 2022.

Gregory’s father, Errol Bhola, had told the Police on January 9, he was informed that five men were beating his son. Bhola said he immediately went to enquire, and upon his arrival, he saw

the men – one of whom was armed with a cutlass, one with an iron bar, and the other three with pieces of wood – beating his son.

The pensioner recalled

asking the five men the reason for the brutal assault, but they allegedly responded, “Stay out of the matter, or else we will kill he.” The elder Bhola was then told by

one of the men to kneel, and when he refused, he too was assaulted and pushed to the ground.

The men reportedly took the young man to a nearby

yard and continued the assault. At that time, the victim’s father went into his vehicle and drove to Mibicuri Police Station, where he reported the matter.

He was accompanied to the scene by Police officers, and they immediately escorted Gregory to Mibicuri Public Hospital.

He was examined by a doctor, who subsequently transferred him to the New Amsterdam Public Hospital, where he was further examined and admitted as a patient at the Intensive Care Unit (ICU).

The following day, Police ranks, acting on information, went to Bound Yard at Port Mourant, Corentyne, where they arrested the five men and took them into custody at the Whim Police Station.

Rise in COVID-19 cases not unique to Guyana – Health Minister

T

he National Public Health Reference Laboratory has been working into the nights to process the high number of COVID-19 tests conducted.

On Friday, Health Minister, Dr Frank Anthony said while all the results of tests done are not yet available, over the last 24 hours there were five COVID-19 related deaths in Guyana.

“Right now, we have 113 people in hospital. Most of those persons are in the Ocean View Hospital, with about 13 of them in the ICU, unfortunately, over the last 24 hours we have had five deaths as well,” Dr Anthony said.

The last figure released was 1186, in the previous 24-hour cycle, and the record-high number of cases has been consistent over the past days.

Dr Anthony noted that while it is uncertain how long this current wave would last, Guyana is not the only country facing a spike in infections.

The Health Minister noted that as of January 12, 312 million people were infected with the COVID-19 virus or

Health Minister Dr Frank Anthony

Sars Cov-2, while more than 5.5 million people have died as a result of the disease.

“Over the last 12 weeks, there have been a steady increase in cases, primarily because of the contagiousness of the Omicron variant.

This we are seeing across the world. Over the last week alone, the WHO has been reporting that there

have been 12.5 million new cases, that is driven primarily by the cases that we are seeing in the Americas.”

In the last week, cases have gone up by 78.8 per cent in the Americas, while cases have risen by 37 per cent in Europe.

“So, this is not unique to Guyana, we live in a globally connected environment and what happens elsewhere would also impact on us here in Guyana,” Dr Anthony said.

Guyana has been providing vaccination for the population since February 2021, with more than 81 per cent of the adult population taking at least a first dose of a COVID vaccine while close to 60 per cent have taken a second dose.

“We have been encouraging people to get vaccinated.

With this latest wave, one of the characteristics that we have seen with Omicron is that even if you had two doses of the vaccine that it would not have been as effective as if you got two doses plus a booster.”

NEWS

11

SATURDAY, JANUARY 15, 2022| GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Father of 2 killed in freak accident at Eccles

Dead man’s mother: Sharon Ponton

Dead: Troy Ponton

A

mother who lost her husband more than a year ago will now have to bury her son who was impaled by a steel rod protruding from an opening to a culvert under the road on Thursday evening at Eccles Industrial Site, East Bank Demerara (EBD).

Troy Anthony Ponton, a 43-year-old father of two of Diamond Housing Scene, EBD, was riding his bicycle

when he stopped his bicycle and called out to Ponton, he did not get a response. He, however, turned around to look for the man and it was then he observed his friend sitting in an upright position in the culvert with his head resting on the steel rods, which was protruding from his nose.

The mother said from the information she received, her son was blinded by the lights of an oncoming vehicle, which probably rendered him unable to see the hole in the road.

“As I understand, the same time he was coming,

The hole in which Ponton was found

heading home when he fell into an open culvert and became impaled by a steel rod.

The exposed culvert was situated on the pavement at the corner of Hummingbird Avenue and Falcon Drive, Block EE, Eccles.

According to the dead man’s mother, Sandra Ponton, her son and a friend were returning home at about 22:30h from bible class when the accident occurred. Shortly after, she was informed of the dreaded news.

Reports are that the friend heard an impact and

there was some car light… the car light was in his eyes and he bounce in there and then he fall and then the steel run up in his nose and straight up in his head,” she explained.

The woman said the company that is responsible for leaving the area like that should face the full brunt of the law. Efforts by this publication to ascertain which company is responsible for the construction work in that area proved futile.

“I don’t have enough energy to go through this, but I am just begging God to give me health and strength, and

faith to go through this. I lost my husband to a heart attack. He woke up a Friday morning and told me he is not feeling well… while hustling to go to the hospital… I see him lying on the bed with his tongue out his mouth and that’s it,” she explained.

“A big company like that, they should have had something to notify you, you know them highlight thing you does put around so that you will know that there is danger…everybody comes here and do all that they want and they don’t follow the procedure, do the right things,

Police at the scene of the accident on Thursday evening

do the right things, when you do the right things, a lot of things could be avoided,” the mother lamented.

The woman said she is unsure how she will deal with this grief since the loss is not only unbearable but

also sudden.

Ponton, who worked as a labourer, had two children, aged 7 and 10. Investigations are ongoing.

Meanwhile, the Public Works Ministry has since clarified that there were

no road construction works where the accident occurred.

Based on their investigation, the culvert was previously damaged by a vehicle, and someone had placed a board over the exposed steel rods.

12 NEWS 861 inmates graduate from ground-breaking courses SATURDAY, JANUARY 15, 2022 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

A

total of 861 inmates of the Mazaruni, New Amsterdam, Camp Street and Timehri Prisons have been recognised for successfully completing several training courses in various programmes aimed at preparing them for reintegration into society.

Among those who graced the stage all decked out in their gowns on Wednesday were high profile and special watch inmates. Convicted and remanded prisoners were also given opportunity to participate in the train-

Some of the innates who graduated

ing areas, such as entrepreneurship, anger management, carpentry and joinery, family reconciliation, tailoring, culinary arts, art and craft, cosmetology, barbering, crops husbandry, and veterinary sciences.

Director of Prisons (ag) Nicklon Elliot has said inmates were given an opportunity to participate in the various programmes, which focused on imparting skills with the aim of preparing the participants for reintegration into society.

Elliot explained that the

Prison Service has an obligation and mandate to provide prisoners with skills to facilitate their reintegration into society.

He added that the task of the Prisons is to help inmates realise their mistakes and become better individuals.

Elliot further stated that the prison directorate remains confident that as the prison infrastructure continues to be developed, more prisoners would benefit from such rehabilitative training.

He made it clear that rehabilitation of prisoners is an ongoing process, and stated, “We are adequately preparing them, whether it

is with skill or educational training, so that when they are released back into society, they are productive citizens.”

Each graduate was presented with a certificate in recognition of their successful participation.

Logistics Gy Express Inc donates $3.7M in PPE to MoE

From left: High Commission of Canada’s Senior Trade Commissioner Jake Thomas, Managing Director of Logistics Gy Express Inc, Randy Wade; Permanent Secretary Alfred King, and CGCC’s Chief Executive Officer Treina Fiona Butts

T

he Education Ministry on Friday received a quantity of personal protective equipment from Logistics Gy Express Inc, to the tune of $3,790,000.

Permanent Secretary Alfred King received the items from the Managing Director of the company, Randy Wade, in the Ministry’s boardroom. The donation included 180 bottles of sanitiser, 6,400 KN95 masks, and 1,150 surgical masks.

In brief remarks, King said the donation would help ensure the school environment is safe for students, teachers and supporting staff, and assured that the Education Ministry is sparing no effort in ensuring persons are protected against COVID-19.

The donation was fa-

Some of the PPEs donated

cilitated through the Canada-Guyana Chamber of Commerce (CGCC), of which Logistics Gy Express Inc is a member.

Wade expressed his company’s commitment to providing support to protect youth, and foster safe spaces for learning, particularly in light of the challenging times. He further noted

that the health and safety of students and teachers are of paramount importance.

Also present during the handing over ceremony were CGCC’s Chief Executive Officer Treina Fiona Butts and High Commission of Canada’s Senior Trade Commissioner Jake Thomas.

NEWS

13

SATURDAY, JANUARY 15, 2022 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

14-mth-old toddler among 6 COVID deaths …865 new infections detected in 24h …booster uptake to slow down infections SEX Female

AGE 58

Female Male Male

83 52 14

Female Male

Months 77 94

G

REGION Essequibo Islands – West Demerara East Berbice-Corentyne East Berbice-Corentyne Barima-Waini East Berbice-Corentyne Demerara-Mahaica

uyana’s death toll from COVID-19 has jumped to 1081 after six more persons succumbed to the virus, the Health Ministry reported on Friday.

The Ministry stated that a 58-year-old woman from Region Three; a 52-yearold man from Region Six and a 94-year-old man from Region Four succumbed on January 13.

On January 12, two women - an 83-year-old and 77-year-old from Region Six, died. In addition, a 14-month-old baby boy died on January 11. Two of these persons were fully vaccinated, two unvaccinated while the status of the others is unknown.

However, new statistics provided by the Ministry showed that 865 new positive cases were reported as the country navigates through this new wave, taking the confirmed cases in Guyana to 49,056. Of this figure, 22,841 are males with 26,215 females.

There are 15 patients in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU), 145 in institutional isolation, 8835 in home isolation and seven in institutional quarantine. In total, 38,980 persons recovered completely.

A breakdown of the new cases showed that one was detected in Region One (Barima-Waini), 38 in Region Two (PomeroonSupenaam); 157 in Region

DATE OF

Vaccination

DEATH January 13

Status Fully Vaccinated

January 12 January 13 January 11 January 12 January 13

Three (Essequibo IslandsWest Demerara); a staggering 532 in Region Four (Demerara-Mahaica); 25 in Region Five (MahaicaBerbice); 67 in Region Six (East Berbice-Corentyne); one in Region Nine (Upper Takutu-Upper Essequibo) and 44 in Region 10 (Upper Demerara-Berbice).

There were no new cases reported in Regions Seven (Cuyuni-Mazaruni) and Eight (Potaro-Siparuni).

Booster uptake

Meanwhile, booster COVID-19 shots will equip Guyanese with more protection than the standard two doses, amid the growing intensity of the Omicron wave that is causing higher infections.

Health Minister, Dr Frank Anthony is urging Guyanese to take the booster doses if they are completely immunised against the novel virus. This, he noted, will reduce the risk of infection against the highly-transmissible Omicron variant that is circulating.

Currently, over 24,000 persons have taken their booster jab.

With this latest wave, one of the characteristics of the mutations that we have seen with Omicron is that even if you had two doses of the vaccine, it would not be as effective as if you got two doses plus a booster. That is why we have been encour-

Unknown Unvaccinated Unvaccinated Fully Vaccinated Unknown

aging people to ensure that they get the booster. With the booster, you’re more protected against Omicron.

While it has been almost one year since the rollout of vaccination commenced, the Minister pointed out that the infodemic is still a challenge for authorities.

“It is a big problem. The WHO would have identified this early in the pandemic and they call it an ‘infodemic’ meaning that people can use the speed of the internet and the reach of the internet to very quickly, convey wrong information and with that wrong information, it takes a lot of effort to try to undo that. Unfortunately, there are people who go on the internet, look at these things and some of the people who present them, present them in a very believable way,” said Dr Anthony.

Speaking on efforts, he said countries would have to implement strategies to combat the issues of misinformation within the public domain and on social media.

“The medical authorities around the world have had a big struggle in trying to counter the wrong information that is being put out and trying to get people to do the right thing. It is an ongoing struggle and I guess in the kind of globalised world we’re living in, we’ll have to come up with strategies of how to minimise the effect of this type of disinformation

CANU discovers pistol, ammunition during narcotics operation

T

he Customs AntiNarcotics Unit, during an operation on Friday in Region Four (Demerara-Mahaica), discovered one CZ .32 pistol along with a magazine containing five hollow-point bullets in the Sophia, Greater Georgetown area.

In addition, several packets of marijuana were also found.

As a result of the discovery, several individuals were arrested and taken to CANU Headquarters where they are being questioned.

These operations, which were conducted in Plaisance, Haslington, Sophia, and Lodge, are part of CANU’s ongoing efforts to keep narcotics out of communities as well as maintain safe areas.

The gun and ammunition found during the operation

GUYANA COVID-19 DASHBOARD JANUARY 14, 2022 UPDATE

NUMBER OF NEW CASES

865

NUMBER OF PERSONS IN INSTITUTIONAL ISOLATION

145

NUMBER OF PERSONS IN HOME ISOLATION NUMBER OF PERSONS IN COVID-19 ICU

8835 15

NUMBER OF PERSONS IN INSTITUTIONAL QUARANTINE

7

TOTAL CONFIRMED CASES BY GENDER (FEMALES)

26,215

TOTAL CONFIRMED CASES BY GENDER (MALES)

22,841

TOTAL CONFIRMED CASES IN GUYANA SINCE 2020

49,056

NUMBER OF RECOVERED CASES

38,980

TOTAL 1st DOSE VACCINATED FULLY IMMUNISED

REGION 1

1792

REGION 2

1834

REGION 3

6359

REGION 4

24,219

REGION 5

1777

REGION 6

4624

REGION 7

2071

REGION 8

641

REGION 9

2881

REGION 10

2858

HERE IS HOW YOU CAN BE SAFE DURING THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC Wear a face mask.

416,994 303,373

TOTAL NUMBER OF DEATHS

DISTRIBUTION OF TOTAL CONFIRMED CASES SINCE MARCH 2020

1081

Keep a physical distance of at least 6 feet.

Wash your hands or use handsanitizer If you have any symptoms, call the COVID-19 Hotline.

GET MEDICAL ADVICE ON COVID-19 FROM MOH 24/7 HOTLINE NUMBERS: 2311166; 226 7480; 624 6674; 624 2819; 624 3067 OR 180/181.

and misinformation.”

In Guyana, 416,994 adults or 81.3 per cent have taken a first dose while 303,373 or 59.1 per cent are completely immunised. For children between the age of 12 to 17, 22,309 or 30.6 per cent are completely vaccinated.

Government was expecting the arrival of 28,000 Johnson & Johnson vaccine doses, a donation from

Spain.

All Guyanese are reminded to observe the protocols of the COVID-19 Emergency Measures, which are in effect until January 31, 2022.

This order emphasises the need for everyone, 12 years and older to get vaccinated against COVID-19; the need for correct and consistent use of a face mask when leaving your home; the importance of maintain-

ing the six feet physical distance from others; and the need for good hand hygiene to help reduce the spread of COVID-19.

If anyone is displaying any of the symptoms associated with COVID-19 or needs any additional information, they are asked to contact the COVID-19 Hotline 231-1166, 226-7480 or 624-6674 immediately or visit www.health.gov.gy

14 NEWS

SATURDAY, JANUARY 15, 2022 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Guyana receives almost 29,000 doses of J&J vaccine

Health Minister Dr Frank Anthony and Deputy Ambassador of the European Union, Evelina Melbarzde

G

uyana on Friday received a donation of 28,800 doses of the Jannsen Johnson & Johnson vaccine from the Government of Spain, through COVAX. Health Minister, Dr Frank Anthony, expressed gratitude to the Spanish Government, COVAX and all countries that have contributed along the way.

“We are very lucky in Guyana, to be able to access so many vaccines and through COVAX, we have had a very good partnership and over the last cou-

ple of months we have benefitted tremendously from COVAX in getting vaccines to Guyana,” Dr Anthony said.

Through COVAX, Guyana has benefitted from donations of AstraZeneca, Pfizer and Johnson & Johnson vaccines. Minister Anthony noted that through the donations and vaccines purchased by the Government, vaccination has been made available for everyone in Guyana.

Currently, the first dose vaccination rate is approximately 81 per cent, while

second dose is close to 60 per cent.

“We want to encourage everyone that they go and get their booster doses.

We have been a little short of Johnson & Johnson, so this comes really at a very appropriate time. I think this week I was told we had about 200 doses in Georgetown, and we have some 2000 doses out in the region. So, we were very much looking forward to getting this particular shipment of vaccines, and now that it has arrived, I’m sure it would boost our ef-

fort to make sure that we get more vaccines out, especially the booster doses to people who need them,” Dr Anthony said.

The Minister also noted that compared to the holiday period when there were about 80 vaccines given a day, this has now improved to some 3000 daily.

This is a positive sign, he said, as he encouraged persons to get vaccinated, especially children between the ages of 12-17.

Meanwhile, Evelina Melbarzde, Deputy Ambassador of the European Union, who also represented the Ambassador of Spain, resident in Trinidad, Fernando Nogales Alvarez, noted that Spain is one of the most active donors in the region.

“It’s very important that there is such a great solidarity and such support for Guyana,” she noted. She

The shipment of Johnson & Johnson vaccines

also urged persons to get vaccinated.

The Johnson & Johnson vaccine is now a two-dose regimen and is also being used as a booster shot.

Also present at the handing over was PAHO/WHO Representative, Dr Luis

Cardina; United Nations Resident Coordinator, Yesim OrucUnited States Ambassador; Sarah-Ann Lynch; Maternal and Child Health Officer and National Immunisation Manager at the Ministry of Health, Dr Oneka Scott among others.

PSC, Joint Services’ “Operation Clean-Up” kicks off today

A heap of garbage in Georgetown

T

he Joint Services in collaboration with the Private Sector and combined agencies will conduct a massive two-day clean-up exercise in several areas around Georgetown over the weekend. The exercise will commence at 06:00h on both days.

The exercise, dubbed “Operation Clean-Up”, will see the cleaning of illegal dumpsites, fencing vacant lots being used for illegal dumping, transporting the garbage collected to landfills, and the weeding and raking of parapets in 13 communities.

This is the first of many exercises which will be held in other parts of the coun-

try. Moreover, accumulated garbage will be removed in the following areas: Sussex Street, West Front Road, Brickdam & High Street, Broad, and Saffon Streets, Cemetery Road, Hadfield Street, East La Penitence Market, High and Princes Streets, Campbellville, Newtown area, D’Urban and Smyth Streets.

Alternate locations have also been identified based on the progress of the initial list of areas as well as available resources and the number of volunteers.

Members of the public are encouraged to join in these efforts aimed at keeping the surroundings clean.

The coordinating point is

D’Urban Park and teams will then fan out to the various areas.

President Dr Irfaan Ali had announced in his New Year’s message that his Government intends to lead a national resurgence of sustained public cleanliness that promotes environmental health across the country, which goes hand in hand with the rapid developmental transformation already taking place.

Guyana’s transformational agenda also focuses heavily on achieving a restoration of national pride and patriotism, even as the country coalesces towards a singular identity.

NEWS

15

SATURDAY, JANUARY 15, 2022 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

1100-pound cocaine bust at Orealla

Judge overturns Magistrate’s decision to grant bail to Brazilian nationals

Senior Magistrate Alex Moore

F

inding that it was erroneous in law, irrational, and without lawful basis, High Court Judge Sandil Kissoon has quashed a decision by Senior Magistrate Alex Moore to grant $3 million bail each to Salem Nobrega De Alencar and Andre Luiz Pereira – the Brazilian nationals who are charged for a massive 1100-pound cocaine bust made here last year, as well as illegally entering Guyana This is according to a statement by the Attorney General’s Chambers which described the ruling as “historic” and a “matter of high public importance”. Initially charged with trafficking in narcotics on May 27, 2021, the foreigners were remanded to prison by Magistrate Moore.

However, they appeared before him again on July 27, 2021, and were granted their pre-trial liberty. But although granted bail, they were not released from custody, as Police

From left: Salim Nobrega De Alencar and Andre Pereira during their first appearance at the Springlands Magistrate’s Court

ering the application, Justice Kissoon identified three issues for determination.

These were whether the High Court has jurisdiction to review the decision of a Magistrate sitting in criminal matters; whether Sergeant Fraser had jurisdiction to institute the proceedings; and whether the Magistrate acted in excess of his jurisdiction unlawfully, unreasonably, and irrationally when he granted bail to the two accused of the alleged offences.

On the first issue, Justice Kissoon, according to the statement, stated unequivocally that the High Court has supervisory jurisdiction to review decisions over the magistracy in both civil and criminal proceedings subject to settled exceptions.

Rules 1906,” the statement reads.

It added: “Justice Kissoon postulated that the High Court has a supervisory jurisdiction to guarantee the integrity and fairness of summary proceedings referenced Chief Justice Chang, SC in an application by Sampson (2011) who posited that in applications for judicial review of criminal proceedings, where it would cause delay or obstruct criminal process which in the public interest ought to be tried with expedition, the High Court ought to exercise scrutiny and satisfy itself that there are grounds for making the application, there has been no delay, no alternative remedies available, or vexatious conduct by the applicant for the Court to refuse the ap-

Salem Nobrega De Alencar and Andre Luiz Pereira along with the 450 bricks of cocaine

Sergeant Mark Fraser, on behalf of the State, filed judicial review proceedings to have their bail revoked on the grounds that they had no ties to Guyana, and also that upon their release, they would be perpetually violating the Immigration Act. On August 18, 2021, Justice Kissoon granted an interim order suspending Magistrate Moore’s bail order, until the High Court determined the judicial review application. The Attorney General’s Chambers’ statement explained that in consid-

The missive added that the Judge, in pronouncing on Guyana’s common law heritage, alluded to the House of Lords’ decision of Neil v North Antrim Magistrate’s Court 1992 UK HL 1 which re-affirmed the jurisdiction of the High Court to quash the decision of an inferior court, tribunal and other statutory bodies for errors of law.

“Prior to the promulgation of the Judicial Review Act, No 23 of 2010 in Guyana, the procedure governing the grant of prerogative writs was governed by the Crown Office

plication.”

It was further explained in the statement that the modern approach to challenging interlocutory decisions made by judicial officers in summary criminal proceedings is outlined by the following principles: where there is no factual dispute; where there is no disruption or delay in the substantial criminal proceedings; and where the delay, if left unchallenged, may incur expense resulting in an injustice.

As it relates to the second issue, the Attorney

General’s Chambers noted that the Judge determined that members of the Guyana Police Force have conduct of all criminal proceedings in the Magistrate’s Courts. The Chambers, in its statement, said that Justice Kissoon held that charges against the Brazilians were laid by Sergeant Fraser by virtue of section 59 of the Police Act which speaks to the rights of officers, inspectors, and subordinate officers to prosecute cases.

“As it relates to the third issue, “The Honourable Justice Sandil Kissoon expounded that irrespective of Senior Magistrate Moore’s decision to not respond to the proceedings filed against his decision to grant bail to Andre Luiz Pereira, this does not act as a bar to prevent the Honourable Court from judicially reviewing the said decision,” the statement said.

According to the Chambers, Justice Kissoon held that the conditions for granting bail under Section 94 of the Narcotics and Psychotropic Substances Act, were not satisfied given that Magistrate Moore took into account factors relating to the offender and not the offence as is required by the said section.

As such, the statement further explained that Justice Kissoon held that there was no basis, fact, or circumstances existing or apparent nor any principle of law or consideration relevant or applicable in the circumstances of the matter to warrant or justify the decision of Magistrate Moore to admit them to bail.

Irrational, without lawful basis

The AG Chambers noted that Justice Kissoon ruled that Magistrate Moore’s decision was plainly not only irrational but perverse. “Justice Kissoon further held that the learned Magistrate committed grave errors in the interpretation and application of Section 94 and what constituted special reasons which went to the Magistrate’s jurisdiction and as such, without more makes his decision liable to be quashed.”

Justice Kissoon, the

High Court Judge Sandil Kissoon

Attorney General Anil Nandlall, SC

statement added, held that Magistrate Moore quantified erroneous and irrelevant considerations which had no bearing on the issue and matter before him and held that the decision of Magistrate Moore to grant bail to Pereira and De Alencar was in the circumstances erroneous in law, without unlawful basis, plainly irrational, untenable, perverse, was not a judicial one and made without jurisdiction as it fell outside the bounds of what can be construed as reasonable in the Wednesbury sense.

Attorney General Anil Nandlall, SC, appeared on behalf of the State in this matter in association with Deputy Solicitor General Beverly Bishop-Cheddi, Assistant Deputy Solicitor

ter circling the area for some time.

However, the men were subsequently accosted by Police ranks, who questioned them about their presence in the area. They then took the ranks to the aircraft, where a search conducted unearthed a quantity of cocaine. The estimated cost of the drug is $2.9 billion.

The Customs AntiNarcotics Unit (CANU) had reported that, from all indications, the aircraft was heading to Suriname. Investigations revealed that they had allegedly flown from Brazil to Venezuela, and thereafter landed in Guyana without authorisation from the Guyana Civil Aviation Authority.

Letters were dispatched to law enforcement agen-

The aircraft that crash-landed at Orealla

General Patricia Shepherd, and State Counsel Saabira Ali Hydaralie. Attorney-at-Law Nigel Hughes appeared on behalf of Pereira.

Crash-landed

De Alencar, 60, and Pereira, 30, were jointly charged with the offence back in May 2021, following the discovery of 535.8 kilograms of cocaine on board a green-andwhite Beechcraft Bonanza plane with registration number PT-SRR that crash-landed at Orealla, Corentyne River in Region Six (East BerbiceCorentyne) on May 20, 2021.

The men reportedly told residents of Orealla that they were travelling and visiting several areas to do sport fishing and other leisure activities, but encountered difficulties with the weather. They further claimed that the aircraft was almost out of fuel, and they had gotten lost af-

cies in Brazil, Suriname, and Guatemala to enquire the meaning of the abbreviation VTNO which was a label attached to the packages containing the cocaine found on the plane. In addition to the 450 bricks of cocaine which each weighed one kilogram, two Global Positioning Systems, one radio set, three smartphones, and two identification cards were also found on the plane.

Moreover, in recent times, the grant and refusal of bail have evoked much criticisms and even controversies in the public domain. A few months ago, in a letter to the press, the Attorney General expressed the view that the grant of bail by certain Magistrates was highly irregular and not in accordance with the relevant legal principles. Nandlall had indicated that the State would challenge some of these decisions.

16 NEWS GAWU condemns fearmongering Essequibo man of enterprises to silence workers found dead in home SATURDAY, JANUARY 15, 2022 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Workers at a May Day rally some years ago

T

he Guyana Agricultural and General Workers Union (GAWU) has condemned any action taken by employers to instill fear in their employees in a bid to silence them from speaking up against grievances in the workplaces.

In a statement on Friday, the Union noted that such measures to cheat workers of their due benefits would not be condoned.

“The GAWU is aware that fearmongering is utilised by some enterprises to dissuade workers from speaking up. Such ploys are not new, but demonstrate the ends pursued by those who accumulate wealth from the workers’ efforts. We detest such measures, and see such pressures as yet another means to cheat work-

ers out of their due benefits.

The victories demonstrate, without a doubt, the achievements workers can realise and the respect they can earn when they work together with organisations aligned with their interests.”

This GAWU position comes after it was announced that through the Oil and Gas Branch of the union and several ‘brave’ workers, a foreign multinational enterprise operating in Guyana has now committed to respecting all workers’ rights.

“This represents a major success for the workers of the company, and more so the sector, given the many reports of exploitative practices being perpetuated. The GAWU Oil and Gas Branch remains convinced that its work among workers in our

nascent oil and gas sector remains relevant to ensuring that workers’ rights are respected,” the Union has said.

The GAWU had drawn attention to the fact that the company, in its employment contracts, explicitly denied workers their right to belong to trade unions. The inclusion of such a prohibitive clause runs counter to the Constitution of Guyana, which guarantees such rights to all workers.

“This was among several other issues workers of the company brought to the GAWU’s knowledge.

Our Union subsequently informed the Ministry of Labour. GAWU was later informed that Company was advised by the Ministry that it needed to remove the offensive condition.”

Though the company committed to doing same, GAWU’s follow-up with employees revealed that that commitment did not materialise. This was communicated to the Labour Ministry, and it resulted in further engagement with the company.

Following that engagement, the company, by memorandum, informed its employees that it was respectful of all labour rights and standards.

Workers in the sector also scored another victory through the insistence by the Maritime Administration Department (MARAD) to have foreign-flagged vessels in the sector have onboard a copy of their Seafarers Employment Agreement.

That agreement would advise of important matters, such as wages, hours of work, and other benefits.

GAWU contextualised, “Previously, many workers in the sector have indicated to GAWU they are in the dark regarding how their pay and benefits are calculated. Indeed, we are hopeful that the MARAD decision is implemented by all vessels. At this time, we urge that serious consideration be given to the ratification of the ILO’s Maritime Labour Convention, which strengthens protections to workers employed offshore. Indeed, given the challenges workers are confronting, every effort should be pursued to ensure that they are protected,” GAWU has said.

P

olice in Region Two (PomeroonSupenaam) are investigating the circumstances surrounding the death of a 23-year-old man who was found dead on Friday in his Onderneeming, Sand Pit, Essequibo Coast home.

The dead man has been identified as Jason Ramdatt, who had resided alone and was known for being a heavy drinker of alcohol.

The man’s body was discovered by his aunt, who suspects that he died by suicide. A postmortem examination would be conducted in the coming week to determine the cause of his death.

The Police have since

Dead: Gordon Callender

P

olice in Linden are investigating the circumstances surrounding the death of a Councillor attached to the Regional Democratic Council of Region Ten (Upper Demerara-Berbice), who was found dead in his home on Friday.

He has been identified as Gordon Callender, also called “Bad Heart”, a longstanding member of the Peoples

T

he Guyana Telephone and Telegraph Company (GTT) on Friday once again urged its subscribers to be vigilant of scammers in light of the company’s recent Christmas promotion and upcoming anniversary promotion.

Chief Operations Officer of Mobile Service, Richard Stanton said while the company has not received a huge amount of scam reports compared to previous years, the

Callender’s body being removed from his home (Photo credit: Norris King)

Callendar is the third Councillor to have died since the installation of the ninth Council last September. In June

confirmed that there were marks of violence on the man’s body.

GTT warns customers to be wary of scammers

PNCR Reg 10 Councillor found dead National Congress Reform (PNCR).

He was also the Chairman of the Regional Health Committee, who had supported the Ministry of Health’s call for persons to get vaccinated against the novel coronavirus.

A video seen by this publication showed the man in a sitting position in the living room of his house, with his mouth wide open.

Guyana Times was told that the man was last seen alive on Thursday by his colleagues at a statutory meeting, where they “had a good time”.

Family members of Callender are of the belief that he might have suffered a heart attack. However, they are awaiting a post mortem examination which would determine the cause of his death.

Several persons have taken to social media to offer condolences to the bereaved family members and friends of Callender.

The PNCR, at a press briefing on Friday, also expressed its condolences to the family, relatives and friends of Callender, stating that he would be missed.

Dead: Jason Ramdatt

last year, Vice Chairman of Region 10, Douglas Gittens, died of complications caused by the deadly coronavirus.

COO of GTT Mobile Business Unit, Richard Stanton

company is still keen on advising customers to be vigilant.

“Based on reports over the years, customers are oftentimes urged to top up an account, send MMG, or even pay money to uplift prizes.

We would never ask a customer for money to uplift any prize,” the COO stressed.

He added, “All of our promotions are reflected on our social media pages and even on our website via https:// www.gtt.co.gy/promotions; so, we urge our subscribers to be aware of these scammers to avoid being conned.”

The COO also reminded that customers can query promotions through the company’s customer care line on 0488, its live chat via gtt.co.gy, and through its customer service representatives at any GTT store.

NEWS

17

SATURDAY, JANUARY 15, 2022 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

APNU/AFC spent $400M on defective pumps – Mustapha A

griculture Minister Zulfikar Mustapha has called out the former APNU/AFC coalition Government for its poor governing strategy, as evidence of wasteful spending continues to surface.

During the Economic Services Committee’s meeting in the Parliament Buildings on Wednesday, Minister Mustapha said the previous Administration exhausted some US$2 million to procure 12 pumps from an Indian company through a line of credit.

He said the equipment were still accepted, although they did not meet

Agriculture Minister Zulfikar Mustapha

the standard and specification.

“Those pumps are

still in the defect liability stage,” the Minister asserted.

He explained that Government has since made significant strides to rectify the situation, noting that the Attorney General, Anil Nandlall, is playing an integral role in the process.

“We are now trying very hard to get the right specifications of those pumps, what I have done is ask the Attorney General to write the company in India because the specifications of the pumps that were supplied were not correct,” Minister Mustapha ex-

plained.

Already, several changes have been made to the engines, given the work magnitude.

“Every time there is heavy rainfall around the country and those pumps come on, you have the gearbox damaging, the drive shaft not working, gear oil throwing out, so they are defective pumps and engines,” he said.

Currently, approximately US$1 million is outstanding on the order. But Minister Mustapha said no more money will be paid until the defective pumps are fixed. “The pumps

came in; they went and see them but never objected. That is why now we are objecting to those pumps.

As a matter of fact, prior to 2015, we had purchased a number of pumps from the same company and we sent technicians there to look at them, to assess the specification and we rejected those engines. Although the former Government paid US$2 million already, since I assumed the role of Minister of Agriculture, I have withheld all other sums,” he added.

Additionally, the Agriculture Ministry is advancing efforts to retrieve

a number of breeding animals worth some US$17 million, which the former Government also purchased, but were never delivered. “… we are on the verge of receiving it and we are following up very aggressively and I have had the commitment of my counterpart in Barbados to ensure they are supplied,” the Minister explained.

He said the Guyana Livestock Development Authority (GLDA) and the Barbadian authority are making arrangements for the animals to come to Guyana.

Budget 2022

PNC calls for 25% wage increase for Public Servants

T

he People’s National Congress Reform (PNCR) on Friday leapt forward to call for “at least” 25 per cent increase in wages and salaries for public servants as Budget 2022 is soon to be presented to the nation.

This was proposed by PNC Leader Aubrey Norton during a press conference where he demanded an interim increase in wages and salaries of public servants of 10 per cent pending the start and finalisation of GovernmentUnion talks on wages and other benefits.

“At the end of the day, workers must get at least 25 per cent in wages and sala-

ries increase,” he stated.

Along with this, he also put forward an increase in the income tax threshold to $1.5 million or one-third of gross earnings, whichever is higher, from the present $780,000.

In addition, Norton called for an increase of $10,000 per month in the old-age pension; payment of a COVID Risk Allowance to all eligible frontline workers of $50,000 every six months; a grant of up to $5 million to eligible existing micro, small and medium businesses as well as start-ups.

He also asked that Government set aside about $5 billion to implement a pro-

gramme of infrastructure renewal in depressed villages and communities, entailing roads, drains, community and recreational centres and markets.

Just last month, the PPP/C Government announced a seven per cent increase for over 50,000 public servants, teachers, members of the Disciplined Services, and Government pensioners. The retroactive salary increases along with the substantive December salaries and pensions placed $10.5 billion in the hands of these categories of Guyanese.

This injection was expected to stimulate economic ac-

PNCR Leader Aubrey Norton

tivity across the country by increasing the disposable in-

come.

During this time, $250,000 one-off cash grants were distributed to each of the severed sugar workers from the Enmore, Skeldon, Rose Hall and Wales Sugar Estates.

This totalled over $1.3 billion.

In 2020, the Government immediately implemented a COVID-19 cash grant, where $25,000 was disbursed per household. In 2021, the monthly old-age pension was increased from $20,500 to $25,000 and public assistance increased from $9000 to $12,000. In August 2021, special measures were announced for the provision of a one-off grant of $25,000 to all

old-age pensioners, public assistance recipients, and persons living with disabilities.

The Government restored and increased the Because We Care cash grants of $19,000 to the parents of school-age children and further extended the programme to children attending private schools.

Importantly, the Government has also committed $400 million for a special 2021 payout to be made to frontline workers in the health sector who continue to support our health sector in facing the new and ongoing challenges posed by the COVID 19 pandemic.

NGO builds home for ailing single mother

A

Rutel Henry standing in front of her new home

fter struggling to construct a home for almost 12 years, a single mother of six was on Friday given the keys to a brand-new home which was constructed by the non-governmental organisation, Vitality Inc. Fifty-seven-year-old Rutel Henry had acquired the land back in 2009 and over the past 12 years had been making plans to build a house but because of financial constraints coupled with illness, she could have only

secured the blocks to make the pillars.

Thanks to the NGO, Henry and her 16-year-old son now have a roof over their heads.

Director of Vitality Inc, Abbas Hamid explained that the organisation has been involved in charitable work in Guyana since its launch last year and would have committed to construct several houses in collaboration with stakeholders including the Government of Guyana.

“In order for us to reach

Minister within the Ministry of Housing and Water, Susan Rodrigues, handing over the house to Henry

out to those people in need, we decided to work with the Government of Guyana and civil society because they are the ones who are at the grass root and who knows, the people that are in need.”

The $2.7 million two-bedroom home is equipped with sanitary facilities and a water trestle. This is the second home constructed by Vitality Inc, with the first being in Region One (Barima-Waini).

Meanwhile, Minister within the Ministry of Housing and Water Susan

Rodrigues, who was also at the handing over ceremony on Friday, explained that Vitality Inc has a great sense of corporate social responsibility and has been contributing towards the development of Guyana.

“There is only so much Government can do and it is always important for the business community to be conscious of its social responsibility, the people who live around you, the needs of society and you must be willing to give back and to help.

There are always these cases that may not be highlighted.”

She referred to Henry’s story as a sad one, noting that the house lot is in one of Government’s housing schemes.

The single mother has been working as a janitor at the Berbice Cricket Board office and fell ill, making it more difficult for her to acquire the necessary funding to construct her home.

Henry said she was overjoyed and even happi-

er when she saw it was a concrete house and not a wood house on stilts which she was thinking of.

“I got sick and because of my sickness, I was unable to build the house.

I started to put down the post but then I got sick, so I am very happy today.”

Henry explained that with her new house she will be saying goodbye to her landlord, noting that she will be able to do much more since she does not have to pay rent.

18

guyanatimesgy.com

SATURDAY, JANUARY 15, 2022

News

All Guyanese must unite to reject efforts to undermine our local content law A

few months ago, I had occasion to reject the Prime Minister of Trinidad and Tobago’s “dissing” Guyana’s vaccination programme. With respect, I had to let the PM of Trinidad and Tobago know he was totally out of line. I love Trinidad and Tobago. I have many friends in Trinidad and Tobago. But I could not allow anyone, not even the Prime Minister of Trinidad and Tobago “dissing” Guyana’s vaccination programme. I did not realise then that I would so soon have to again rebuke someone from Trinidad and Tobago for “dissing” our country. The President and CEO of Massy, using a forum provided by CPSO, intimated a threat to challenge Guyana’s Local Content Policy at the CCJ on the basis that it violates the Revised Treaty of Chaguaramas.

This brazen threat is out of place, provocative and vexatious. Mr Gervase Warner needs to apologise. I am relieved that Suresh Beharry, from one of Guyana’s long-time private enterprise family, dissociated himself from that Caricom private sector Organisation internal email.

The CPSO, a private sector organisation in Trinidad and Tobago linked to Caricom, with companies such as Massy, provided a forum for Mr Warner to brazenly question the Local Content Policy of Guyana, a policy that is now law in our country. We must not equivocate, we must together in absolute solidarity reject the threat from Trinidad and Tobago to challenge Guyana’s local content law at the CCJ. We must let them know that we will do everything in our power to pre-

serve Guyana’s local content law.

Guyana’s Private Sector has immediately been out front rejecting the position articulated by Mr Warner of Massy, a company that has enjoyed the hospitality and generosity of Guyana for decades.

Since CPSO has Caricom’s imprimatur, I would hope that Caricom is not timid in dissociating itself from the statement.

Every citizen, every organisation and every Government in Caricom has a right to approach the CCJ. This is not Caricom’s fault. But Caricom’s silence could also give the impression that Caricom is challenging Guyana’s local content law. Silence is not an option for Caricom on this matter. For CPSO itself, they must let us know if Mr Warner spoke on behalf of himself, Massy and or CPSO. Clearly, one member, Suresh Beharry, has explicitly stated the companies he represents are fully supportive of Guyana’s local content law.

Guyana’s Government has stood strong in claiming local content and in defining local content to ensure that Guyanese citizens and Guyanese businesses enjoy our fair share of Guyana’s wealth.

The media houses in Guyana must take a lead – every newspaper should carry a Page One condemnation of the Massy CEO and of CPSO. Every political party must stand up for Guyana, no “ifs and buts”. As a country we must stand together on certain things.

There is absolutely no room for us to stand apart on this issue.

Every one of the commentators who has been talking about “our oil resources” cannot now excuse in any way the Trinidadians. As

Dr Leslie Ramsammy stated before, kudos to Guyana’s Private Sector, they immediately responded.

I saw at least one of the regular commentators, Mr Chris Ram, out front rejecting the Massy CEO’s position. But there are other commentators who are daily out front questioning whether we are getting enough from the oil resources, but forty-eight hours after the blast from Trinidad, they are silent, still very silent. Guyana’s Opposition political parties stand indicted by their silence. Certain NGOs, who insist they have a right to speak out, even if their organisations are made up of a handful of people cannot pick and choose when they are vocal and when they are quiet when it comes to defending Guyana’s right to our patrimony.

Trinidad and Tobago has been the Caricom country that has victimised our country the most over the years. When it comes to utilising non-tariff barriers to stop our Private Sector from entering domestic markets, no country in Caricom has been more brutal

Brazil reels as COVID-19 cases soar; hospitals, economy under pressure

People wait to receive medical attention and to be tested for the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) at Princess Isabel Palace, where a healthcare unit specialising in COVID-19 and flu symptoms has been set up, in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, January, 12, 2022

B

razil is suffering a sharp rise in COVID-19 cases as the Omicron variant spreads through the country, putting pressure on health services and weighing on an already sputtering economy.

Insufficient testing and a data blackout caused by hackers have made it harder for experts to track the spread of the highly contagious variant in Brazil, but there are increasingly clear signs it is hitting

Latin America’s largest nation hard.

Confirmed cases have almost doubled since last week, with the rolling average for the past seven days surging to 52,500, from 27,267 last Wednesday.

Experts believe the actual number is much higher, due to a shortage of tests and patchy systems for reporting and public disclosure of data.

So far deaths - at around 120 a day - remain far lower than last year, when Brazil

was briefly the global epicentre of the pandemic with more than 3000 deaths per day.

With more than 620,000 dead, Brazil has the third-highest death toll from COVID-19, behind the United States and Russia, according to Reuters calculations.

President Jair Bolsonaro has been widely criticised for his handling of the pandemic, rallying against lockdowns, refusing to wear a mask in public and opting not to get vaccinated.

Epidemiologists hope a strong vaccination campaign, which has seen 67 per cent of the population fully inoculated, will dent the impact of the current wave of infections.

But as demand rises for health services, hospitals are also suffering staff shortages as doctors and nurses self-isolate after testing positive for the virus. (Excerpt from Reuters)

than Trinidad and Tobago. I recall, as Minister of Agriculture, while doing outreaches in Essequibo, I received a call from GRDB asking me if I could assist. A shipment of rice to Trinidad was held up at the wharf in Port of Spain because of a methyl bromide fumigation requirement that all countries in Caricom had agreed to phase out as an obligation under the Stockholm Convention.

Guyana and Trinidad had already implemented the discontinuation of methyl bromide fumigation at the time. It was a clear case of non-tariff barrier. I called the Minister in Trinidad who said he will intervene. A senior agriculture officer then said we could take back the ship into the sea and fumigate with methyl bromide. It was a ridiculous requirement.

At the Caricom level, a task force was established to address the issue of non-tariff barriers that Caricom countries were utilising to stop products from Guyana entering their markets.

The Minister from Trinidad and Tobago was the Chair. The committee barely met. As Minister of Agriculture, I tried to push that task force. We met two times in Trinidad. After 2015, I never heard anything about the task force. It is either in hibernation or disbanded.

But the litany of complaints about our products entering the domestic market in Trinidad and Tobago simply continues to grow. Pepper, pine apple, other agriculture products, such as meat and honey, had the most absurd non-tariff requirement imposed that essentially

meant our products were banned.

Simultaneously, the Private Sector had total freedom to participate in the Guyanese market space. There was no restriction on Trinidad and Tobago’s products entering Guyana. The entry of soft drinks from Trinidad almost paralysed Guyana’s own beverage industry. Trinidad’s contractors and professionals had and still have freedom to operate in Guyana.

I know the threat to challenge our local content law is not coming from the Government of Trinidad and Tobago at this time.

I know this threatened challenge is from one part of the private sector in Trinidad and Tobago. But we must nip this threat in the bud. We must let people know that Guyana will continue to be hospitable to our Caribbean sisters and brothers. But this generosity must not be mistaken for stupidity and for weakness.

Guyana, as it always has done, will continue to be an important player in Caricom. It was wrong for some countries to look down on us when we were down.

Our experiences, even as passengers in-transit, were dehumanising sometimes, often, in fact, in those desperate years. Now that we have the potential of being the lead economy in Caricom, now that our fortunes have improved, we will not look down on our Caricom sisters and brothers.

It is not who we are. Our advice to those who want to challenge our local content law is that our welcome is still as generous as before.

Find your niche in Guyana and prosper, but not at our expense.

Argentine towns sizzle amid ‘hottest days in history’

A girl plays with water as Argentina is facing a historic heat wave with temperatures soaring above 40 degrees Celsius (104°F) straining power grids and forcing residents to seeking sanctuary in the shade, in Salta, Argentina, January, 13, 2022

C

ities and towns in Argentina and neighboring countries in South America have been setting record high temperatures as the region swelters during a historic heat wave.

“Practically all of Argentina and also neighboring countries such as Uruguay, southern Brazil and Paraguay are expe-

riencing the hottest days in history,” said Cindy Fernandez, meteorologist at the official National Meteorological Service.

Many towns have posted their highest temperatures since records began, with some zones heating up to 45 degrees Celsius (113°F), according to the weather service.

“In Argentina, from the

center of Patagonia to the north of the country, thermal values ??are being recorded that are reaching or exceeding 40 degrees,” Fernandez said.

The heat and a prolonged drought have hit the grains-producing country’s crops, though there is hope that an expected drop in temperature next week will bring a period of rainfall to cool both plants and people.

Fernandez, the meteorologist, said a warm air mass had formed over Argentina, right in the middle of the southern hemisphere summer.

“We’re having many days of clear skies where solar radiation is very intense and in a context of an extreme drought Argentina has been going through for about two years,” she said.

“This means that the soil is very dry, and earth that is dry heats up much more than soil that is moist.”

(Excerpt from Reuters)

guyanatimesgy.com

SATURDAY, JANUARY 15, 2022

19

Around the World

OILNEWS OIL NEWS Russia-Ukraine: US warns Oil rally to continue in 2022 as demand outstrips supply, analysts say

O

il prices that rallied 50 per cent in 2021 will power further ahead this year, some analysts predict, saying a lack of production capacity and limited investment in the sector could lift crude to US$90 or even above US$100 a barrel.

Though the Omicron coronavirus variant has pushed COVID-19 cases far above peaks hit last year, analysts say oil prices will be supported by the reluctance of many governments to restore the strict restrictions that hammered the global economy when the pandemic took hold in 2020.

Brent crude futures traded near US$85 on Wednesday, hitting twomonth highs.

"Assuming China doesn't suffer a sharp slowdown, that Omicron actually becomes Omi-gone, and with OPEC+’s ability to raise production clearly limited, I see no reason why Brent crude cannot move towards US$100 in Q1, possibly sooner," said Jeffrey Halley, senior market analyst at OANDA. The Organisation of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) and its allies, a group known as OPEC+, are gradually relaxing the output cuts implemented when demand collapsed in 2020.

However, many smaller producers can't raise supply and others have been wary of pumping too much oil in case of renewed COVID-19 setbacks.

Morgan Stanley predicts that Brent crude will hit US$90 a barrel in the third quarter of this year.

With the prospect of depleting crude inventories and low spare capacity by the second half of 2022, and limited investments in the oil and gas sector, the market will have little margin of safety, the bank said.

JPMorgan analysts said in a note on Wednesday that they could see oil prices rising by up to US$30 after the Energy Information Administration (EIA) and Bloomberg lowered OPEC capacity estimates for 2022 by 0.8 million barrels per day (bpd) and 1.2 million bpd respectively.

However, the bank added that it also expects oil prices to "overshoot" to US$125 a barrel this year, and US$150 in 2023.

Rystad Energy's senior vice-president of analysis Claudio Galimberti said if OPEC was disciplined and wanted to keep the market tight, it could boost prices to US$100.

However, he said he did not consider this a likely scenario and while oil could "momentarily" reach above US$90 this year, downward pressure on prices would come from production increases in Canada, Norway, Brazil and Guyana.

Omani Oil Minister Mohammed Al Rumhi also said on Tuesday that the group doesn't want to see US$100 barrels of oil.

"The world is not ready for that," Al Rumhi was quoted as saying by Bloomberg.

High oil prices, which also drive up gasoline and diesel prices, could keep inflation uncomfortably high well into 2022 amid snarled global supply chains, slowing the economic recovery from the pandemic in many countries.

Standard Chartered, meanwhile, has raised its 2022 Brent forecast by US$8 to US$75 a barrel and its 2023 Brent forecast by US$17 to US$77.

In a Reuters poll in late December, 35 economists and analysts forecast Brent would average US$73.57 a barrel in 2022, about 2 per cent lower than US$75.33 consensus in November. The forecast shows the average price for the year, not the peak.

Brent prices have not touched US$90 and US$100 since 2014, when they were retreating from a high above US$115 to as low as US$57 by the end of the year. (Excerpt from Reuters)

South African study suggests Omicron less severe, even for unvaccinated

U

nvaccinated people infected with the Omicron variant of coronavirus may be less prone to severe illness and requiring hospital care or dying than was the case with previous variants, a South African study showed on Friday.

The study, by the National Institute of Communicable Diseases (NICD) in the Western Cape region, which has not yet been peer-reviewed, compared about 11,600 patients from the first three COVID-19 waves with about 5100 from the Omicron-driven wave that began in November.

Omicron globally has tended to cause less severe disease, and proportionally fewer hospital admissions and deaths, than previous variants.

Scientists are trying to determine the extent to which this is because of higher immunity rates engendered by vaccination or past illness, or Omicron is intrinsically less nasty.

The study concluded that about a quarter of the reduced risk of severe disease with Omicron was attributable to characteristics of the virus itself.

"In the Omicron-driven wave, severe COVID-19 outcomes were reduced mostly due to protection conferred by prior infection and/or vaccination, but intrinsically reduced virulence may account for an approximately 25% reduced risk of severe hospitalisation or death compared to Delta," the study said. (Excerpt from Reuters)

of 'false-flag' operation R ussia is plotting to stage acts of provocation to create a pretext to invade Ukraine, a US official has said.

A Pentagon spokesman said Russian operatives were planning a "false-flag" operation, to allow Moscow to accuse Ukraine of preparing an attack. Russia has dismissed the claims.

It comes after a week of USRussian talks aimed at defusing tensions.

Ukraine on Friday accused Russia of being behind a cyber-attack on dozens of official websites.

Before the sites went offline, a message appeared warning Ukrainians to "prepare for the worst". Access to most of the sites was restored

There are fears in Ukraine that Russia is planning an invasion

within hours.

The US and NATO condemned the attack and have offered support to Ukraine.

Russia has not commented on the hack.

Pentagon spokesman John Kirby told reporters on Friday about what he said were Russia's plans.

"It has pre-positioned a group of operatives to conduct what we call a false-flag operation, an operation designed to look like an attack on them or Russian speaking people in Ukraine as an excuse to go in," he said.

The operatives were trained in urban warfare and using

explosives to carry out acts of sabotage against pro-Russian rebels, US officials said.

Ukraine's Defence Ministry said similar acts were being prepared against Russian troops stationed in the breakaway Transdnistria region of Moldova.

Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov responded by describing the reports as unsubstantiated and "confirmed by nothing".

The US official's remarks follow an earlier statement

by US National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan, who told reporters about intelligence that Russia was laying the groundwork to try to fabricate a pretext for invading Ukraine. (Excerpt from BBC News)

US researchers share COVID-19 vaccine with the world R esearchers in the United States have created a cheap, easyto-produce COVID-19 vaccine that may offer a solution to unequal vaccine access in developing countries.

Bypassing the patent restrictions of major pharmaceutical firms, doctors Maria Elena Bottazzi and Peter Hotez at the Baylor College

of Medicine and the Texas Children’s Hospital Center for Vaccine Development used traditional vaccine technology that can be deployed rapidly to help inoculate the global population.

The world has produced around 10 billion vaccine doses since mid-2020, but more than 70 per cent of the vaccines produced last year were

Downing Street apologises to Queen over lockdown parties

consumed by wealthy nations, according to public health experts. Two years into the coronavirus pandemic, significant parts of the world remain largely unvaccinated, amid the risk that dangerous new variants – such as Delta and Omicron – will continue to emerge.

While major vaccine producers such as Pfizer and Moderna fight to protect their intellectual property rights, Bottazzi and Hotez have developed a vaccine that can be used freely by pharmaceutical makers around the world.

Called Corbevax, it relies on conventional methods of production and is based on a

model that the pair developed to address SARS, a coronavirus strain that broke out in the early 2000s.

Corbevax has already been approved for emergency use in India, where a vaccine manufacturer is producing 100 million doses a month, according to Bottazzi and Hotez.

Licences have also been granted to vaccine makers in Bangladesh and Indonesia, and production talks are under way in Botswana, which means that hundreds of millions of doses a month could soon be produced locally in countries that need vaccines the most. (Excerpt from Al Jazeera)

Ethiopia accuses WHO Chief of links to rebellious Tigrayan forces

The day after the parties took place, the Queen was pictured sitting alone at Prince Philip's funeral due to COVID restrictions

D

owning Street has apologised to Buckingham Palace for two staff parties in No 10 on the night before Prince Philip's funeral.

The gatherings, first reported by The Telegraph, took place on April 16, 2021, and went on until the early hours.

The PM's spokesman said it was "deeply regrettable that this took place at a time of national mourning".

Boris Johnson was not at either party - but he faces questions over alleged COVID rule-breaking at No 10.

The latest party revelations led to a backlash from opposition parties, who contrasted the behaviour of No 10 staff with pictures of the Queen sitting alone at the Duke of Edinburgh's funeral, due to COVID restrictions.

Labour, the Liberal Democrats and the SNP are

all calling for Johnson to resign after he admitted attending a drinks party in the Downing Street garden during lockdown on May 20, 2020.

And Andrew Bridgen has become the fifth Conservative MP to publicly declare they have written to the chairman of the 1922 Committee - which organises Tory leadership contests - to say they have no confidence in the Prime Minister.

Fifty-four Conservative MPs have to write a letter to trigger a vote.

Speaking to BBC's Politics Look North, Pensions Minister Guy Opperman said Johnson's behaviour had been "unacceptable".

The two staff get-togethers for Downing Street staff on 16 April last year happened at a time when Covid restrictions banned indoor socialising.

(Excerpt from BBC News)

E

thiopia demands that the World Health Organisation (WHO) investigate its leader for supporting rebellious forces fighting the Ethiopian Government, the Foreign Ministry said.

WHO Director General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, who previously served as the Ethiopian Health Minister and Foreign Minister, said earlier this week that aid was being blocked from getting through to his home region of Tigray, where rebellious forces are fighting the Central Government.

"Tedros Adhanom's moral, legal and professional standing that threatened WHO's organisational standing," Ethiopia said in a statement late on Thursday. "He has spread harmful misinformation and compromised WHO's reputation, independence, credibility which is evident from his social media postings."

The WHO did not immedi-

ately respond to a request for comment.

Ethiopia's army chief has previously accused Tedros of trying to procure arms and diplomatic backing for the rebellious forces of the Tigray People's Liberation Front (TPLF). He denied that.

Thousands have been killed in the conflict in Tigray, which spread to two neighbouring regions in northern Ethiopia before Tigrayan forces were forced to withdraw back to Tigray in December.

The UN says the Government is operating a de facto blockade of humanitarian aid to Tigray; no trucks have entered the region since Dec 15. More than 90 per cent of the population needs food aid and doctors told Reuters last week that many people including malnourished children - are dying because no medicine has been permitted to enter Tigray. (Excerpt from Reuters)

20

SATURDAY, JANUARY 15, 2022

guyanatimesgy.com

DAILY HOROSCOPES

ARCHIE

Check the logistics of what you want to pursue, then formulate a plan.

Dedication and hard work will pay off, so don’t let anyone try to alter your course. Do what makes you happy.

(March 21-April 19) You’ll have your finger on the pulse.

Take a close look at what needs to be done and formulate a plan that is within your means. A personal choice will lead to growth and better understanding.

DILBERT (April 20-May 20)

(May 21-June 20)

Rethink your professional and financial strategies. A change may tempt you, but don’t give up something solid and secure too quickly. You are better off taking baby steps and trusting your instincts.

An opportunity is within reach. Be open to suggestions, research the possibilities and discuss your plans with someone you think might be interested in helping you. Love is in the stars.

PEANUTS (June 21-July 22)

Assess your financial situation before you spend any money. Take your time, consider how much you can afford and look for a bargain before going into debt. You can be sensibly generous.

(July 23-Aug. 22)

CALVIN AND HOBBES

(Aug. 23-Sept. 22)

(Sept. 23-Oct. 23)

Keep the peace and enjoy your day.

Network or socialize with people who share your interests. Spending time with someone you love will bring you closer. A change of plans will play in your favor.

Keep an open mind, but don’t spend money on things you don’t need.

Channel your energy into something meaningful. Be mindful of others. Take a day trip or research something that interests you.

Fix whatever is broken. Trust in your ability to figure out a cheaper way to live. Avoid getting involved in joint ventures with people who have unrealistic expectations.

SUDOKU (Oct. 24-Nov. 22)

(Nov. 23-Dec. 21)

Say what’s on your mind, share your feelings and intentions, and find out where you stand. Don’t trust secondhand information; go directly to the source, and when in doubt, ask questions.

Express caution if someone exaggerates or offers the impossible. Cut to the facts and make your position clear.

Don’t waste time or fall behind when positive change is within reach.

SOLUTION FOR LAST PUBLISHED PUZZLE

(Dec. 22-Jan. 19) Network, socialize and mix business with pleasure. The outcome will offer plenty to mull over regarding what you want to pursue and how to diversify the skills you have to offer.

(Jan. 20-Feb. 19)

(Feb. 20-March 20)

An investment will pay off if you do the legwork and lower your overhead.

Reach out to someone who can offer expert advice and point you in the right direction. An image update will give you the confidence you need to excel.

SATURDAY, JANUARY 15, 2022

21

South Africa seal come-from-behind series' win as India fall apart picture Rohit Sharma and the shots he plays. Gloriously minimalist.

There was one in the 33rd over. It was only a single, but if anyone managed to take a picture of the positions Petersen got into to play his on-drive, the makers of the cricket manual might be interested in it.

Shami was swinging into him, trying to cramp him. He saw it early, so he had the time to plant his front foot forward - but not too far - and angle it away so that it wouldn't impede the flow of a straight bat coming down on the ball.

There was no anger in the shot. He seems to reserve that for his off-side play. Especially when

S

outh Africa never ever give up a Test match. They were, not so long ago, the greatest travelling team in the whole world. They remain experts of the blockathon. And when you have the courage - the audacity - to bat out entire days of cricket, a target of 212 in a home game is nothing to worry about.

India fought hard. They began

the fourth day with four dots. Two of them were plays and misses.

One was an almost fatal piece of misjudgment where the batter allowed an uninterrupted path for the ball to strike his person.

Jasprit Bumrah went for his yorkers early. Mohammed Shami got it to seam away at will. Shardul Thakur got the only wicket to fall on the day. This is an attack not to

-George expects great competition

T

tournament.

In an interview with this publication, George elaborated on what many can expect today when they turn out. “A number of players are in surprisingly good form early in the season.

Committee members like Maxim Mangra, Rabindra Persaud [p/d] and Patanjalee

Persaud all looking to have a strong showing. Other informed players include Robert Hanoman and Andre Cummings, to name a few. The course is in great shape for this big tournament, and we are expecting a strong turnout of approximately 45 players.

Up to press time, 36 had signed up, and we expect another 8 to sign up.”

If the weather remains dry, the game is likely to be played with some advantages, as the dryness would aid in driving. However, if the rain falls, it would affect the game, as the golfers would have to recalibrate their strategies. Thus sunshine would be beneficial to many, as many have seen in the past what it is like to play at the LGC under beautiful sunshine.

The firm, d r y co n d i t i o n s would make it easier for players to spin the golf ball with a well-struck shot from short grass. Conversely,

SOUTH AFRICA 2ND INNINGS (TARGET: 212 RUNS) Aiden Markram c Rahul b Mohammed Shami 16 Dean Elgar (c) c †Pant b Bumrah 30 Keegan Petersen b Thakur 82 Rassie van der Dussen not out 41 Temba Bavuma not out 32 Extras (lb 8, nb 3) 11 TOTAL (63.3 Ov, RR: 3.33) 212/3 Did not bat: Kyle Verreynne †, Marco Jansen, Kagiso

backlift designed for the express purpose of protecting his stumps, and Temba Bavuma, the first Black African batter to score a Test match century for South Africa. That was

be trifled with, and South Africa knew it. They respected the fact that the 111 runs they still needed for victory would require them to put their bodies, minds and spirit on the line, and that's what they did.

Keegan Petersen, oh boy.

South Africa finally have their own KP! There is a kind of easy grace to him. It's hard to explain, but

LGC Crown Mining Golf Tournament set for today he Crown Mining Supplies Golf Tournament will kickstart the 2022 golf action at the Lusignan Golf Club today at 12:30 hrs.

LGC VP Paton George is expecting an action-packed tournament, and many top golfers participating in the lucrative

SCOREBOARD

Keegan Petersen holding the Player-of-the-Match-and-Series awards, while Dean Elgar poses with the Series Trophy

he decided to go on the back foot. The cuts through point and punches through cover really do leave a mark.

Assisting Petersen were Rassie van der Dussen, with his low

back in January 2016. He's come close a few times - a seventy here, an eighty there - but it's been six years, and he hasn't added to that count. He's still only got one century in 47 Test matches.

Rabada, Keshav Maharaj, Duanne Olivier, Lungi Ngidi Fall of wickets: 1-23 (Aiden Markram, 7.3 ov), 2-101 (Dean Elgar, 29.4 ov), 3-155 (Keegan Petersen, 46.2 ov) BOWLING O-M-R-W Jasprit Bumrah 17-5-54-1 Mohammed Shami 15-3-41-1 Umesh Yadav 9-0-36-0 Shardul Thakur 11-3-22-1 Ravichandran Ashwin 11.3-1-51-0

South Africa have kept the faith in him, though. They're a side in transition. They need senior players to guide them through it. And on Friday, Bavuma was the steadying hand that repelled one of the fiercest sides in international cricket. He struck two outstanding boundaries in one Bumrah over to end a spell wherein South Africa made just five runs in seven overs.

India were feeling it back then.

"Just the keeper and the bowlers left, boys," Virat Kohli said. All of them were averaging around 15 in Test cricket. All of them could put their feet up and relax, thanks to Bavuma.

That first Test defeat in Centurion now looks like an anomaly. South Africa went into it after six months in the red-ball wilderness. The rust they were still shaking off was deeply obvious on that first day's play. Since then, they have rallied and rallied hard.

Lungi Ngidi said this wasn't a team of superstars. He won't be able to keep saying that if they keep playing like this.

(ESPNcricinfo)

Over 30 juniors set to play in National Chess Championships LGC VP, Paton George

when putting greens are soft, they hinder almost any shot, no matter how well it was struck.

The format of the tournament is a Medal play over 18 holes net scores in three flights shotgun start.

The three flights are players9-and under handicap, 10-18 handicap, and 19-36 handicap.

Prizes would be awarded to first position in all three flights.

There would be a secondplace prize in all three flights, and additional gifts for the tournament. Prizes would also be given for nearest to the flag, longest drive, best net overall (first, second and third), and best gross.

All COVID-19 protocols would be in effect.

Nicholas Zhang

Anaya Lall

total of 12 girls and 23 boys have registered to compete in Saturday’s National Under-12 Rapid Chess Championships sponsored by DeSinco Trading Limited.

“We will have a new junior champion this year, as Kyle Couchman, who won the most recent edition of the event in 2020, is now too old to compete.

The Open event is expected to be keenly contested, with all the top

boys having experience in the Junior Rapid World Cup. “The female category is also highly anticipated, with the likes of players such as Anaya Lall, who competed in last year’s World Chess Championship for Persons with Disabilities.

Vice President of the Guyana Chess Federation, Anand Ragunath, said, “The building blocks were set two years ago, and with most of the top players

A

engaged in high-level training, the quality of play is expected to be high. The top players will have it tough, as several are now exposed to training, and any of them could emerge victorious. The younger players also pose a threat, as they too have acquired the skills necessary to win games, but don’t have the experience as yet.

“This tournament sets the stage to showcase the youngest players’ development over the two-year period. FIDE instructor Davion Mars and IM Atanu Lihari have worked with these players for an extend time, and U12s chess is simply at a higher level than we have been accustomed,” he added.

Games are set to begin from 2pm sharp on Saturday on the tornelo.com platform.

Prizes will be awarded for the top three (3) players. The Best Under-8 and Under-10 players would also be rewarded. The tournament will be supervised by FIDE Arbiter John Lee.

22

SATURDAY, JANUARY 15, 2022

GUYANATIMESGY.COM

ICC Under-19 World Cup…

Liyanage, Wellalage propel Sri Lanka to easy win over Scotland

Sakuna Liyanage top

scored

for Sri Lanka with 85

Dinuth Wellalage cel ebrating with his team mates after bagg ing 5-27

Sean Fischer-Keogh bagged 3-56

Story and photos by Timothy Jaikarran

T

he conditions were set, the atmosphere and vibes were there, and the action in the ICC Men’s U19 50-overs World Cup commenced with Sri Lanka battling Scotland in an absolute thriller at the Everest Cricket Club in Georgetown.

In the end, Sri Lanka defeated Scotland by 40 runs, thanks to the batting effort of Sakuna Liyanage, which contributed a fighting 85, and the crafty off-spin of Dunith Wellalage, which produced returns of 5-27.

Sri Lanka choke Scotland

Needing 219 runs to win, Sri Lanka choked their opponents early in their innings. They ensured that Scotland barely scored any runs. For Scotland, the runs dried up drastically, as, at the 25th over, the score read 60-3.

Charlie Tear was the first wicket to fall. He scored 17 off 26 deliveries. Oliver Davidson and

ed a fighting 53

Jack Jarvis scor

Samuel Elstone were pinned down, as they struggled for runs, contributing 15 off 56 deliveries and 13 off 50 deliveries respectively.

At the end of the 30th over, Scotland had struggled to 85-4, with 134 more runs needed to win. Dunith Wellalage, Shevon Daniel and Matheesha Pathirana contributed all within the 30 overs to have their opponents needing to play a T20 innings with six wickets remaining.

Jarvis’s Day, Wellalage’s Christmas

Jack Jarvis picked up two wickets, but little did he know the pressure of the

Scottish innings would be on his shoulders. The openers were slow in their approach, and those who got started failed to carry on.

Jarvis’s fighting spirit gave his team a glimmer of hope as things came down to the wire. He frustrated the Sri Lankan bowlers to some point, when it looked as if he would have taken the game away from them.

He brought up his fifty with a spanking boundary, but later fell victim to scoreboard pressure for a well-played 53, and departed with the score at 165-7 in over 45.3, with his side needing 54 runs off 26 deliveries.

Junior Sinclair bags five, young Chanderpaul on 85* - Trevon Griffith hits unbeaten 50

T

Junior Sinclair and Tagenarine Chanderpaul

agenarine Chanderpaul will be eyeing a century when the second day of the Guyana Harpy Eagles trial match resumes today at Albion. He is on 85. Junior Sinclair was the surprise package of the day, claiming 5-18 as Leon Johnson's XI were bowled out for 121. In reply, Keemo Paul's XI were

143-0 after 38 overs when stumps were drawn.

Earlier, Johnson's XI lost Kevlon Anderson (04) and Chandrapaul Hemraj (21) with the score at 71-2 at lunch. After that session, it was all Junior Sinclair, who is the cousin of West Indies spinner Kevin Sinclair. Junior removed Sachin Singh for 32,

Leon Johnson for 33, Javed Karim for a duck, Ronaldo Ali Mohammed for a duck, and Leon Swamy without troubling the score.

This youngster, who normally bowls quick through the air and plays for Rose Hall Town, ended with figures of 5-18 in 11 overs, which included six maidens. He was supported by Anthony Adams, who claimed 3-16, as the Johnson XI first innings ended after 51.3 overs.

In response, Chanderpaul and Trevon Griffith ensured there were no hiccups as they batted to stumps.

Chanderpaul stuck nine fours in his unbeaten 85 from 129 balls, while Griffith made 57 from 100 balls, decorated with five fours. The second day will bowl off today from 9:30h.

A portion of the stands as fans

Dunith Wellalage’s well-crafted innings ensured that the 54 off 26 that was needed never happened. The off-spinner struck at crucial times, and delivered his team easy points. Tossing and flighting his deliveries, he enticed his opponents to go for the big shots as he used the Everest pitch to his advantage and was practically unplayable, thus reaping his team 5-27 off 9 overs.

The Lankans crumble early

Earlier in the innings, the Sri Lanka side took to the field and found themselves in trouble from the get-go, as they lost Shevon Daniel who was run out for 4. Chamindu Wickramasinghe and Sadisha Rajapaksa put together a mini partnership, but Wickramasinghe fell at 60-2 in 9.2 overs.

And just when Sri Lanka looked to carry on, Scotland said, “Wait!”

They halted all procession and rocked Sri Lanka with quick wickets to move them from 60-2 to 99-6. Jack Jarvis, Olliver Davidson and Sean Fischer-Keogh were the chief destroyers, who sought to bowl out their opponents and take an early day back to their hotel rooms.

Sakuna stands tall

With 99-6 on the board, Sakuna Liyanage redeemed his side. Coming in at number six, the talented batsman held his own as he fought off the Scottish unit. He turned the game in favour of his side with a well-played 85 off 85 deliveries, which

came out to watch the game

he snagged three wickets for 56 runs in his 9 overs. His pace and line and length were what reward him with some much-needed wickets.

Also chipping in were Jack Jarvis with 2-27, Oliver Davidson with 2-50 and Rafay Khan with 1-27.

In the end, Sri Lanka could only afford 218 allout in 45.2 overs.

SCOREBOARD SRI LANKA UNDER-19S INNINGS (50 OVERS MAXIMUM) Chamindu Wickramasinghe c Peet b Jarvis 28 Shevon Daniel run out (Jarvis) 4 Sadisha Rajapaksa b Davidson 24 Pawan Pathiraja st †Tear b Jarvis 0 Ranuda Somarathne lbw b Davidson 5 Sakuna Nidarshana Liyanage c b Fischer-Keogh 85 Dunith Wellalage (c) c b Rafay Khan 10 Raveen de Silva c b Fischer-Keogh 30 Yasiru Rodrigo † b Fischer-Keogh 9 Wanuja Sahan not out 7 Matheesha Pathirana run out 4 Extras (nb 3, w 9) 12 TOTAL (45.2 Ov, RR: 4.80) 218 Fall of wickets: 1-8 (Shevon Daniel, 1.5 ov), 2-60 (Chamindu Wickramasinghe, 9.2 ov), 3-61 (Pawan Pathiraja, 9.4 ov), 4-63 (Sadisha Rajapaksa, 10.3 ov), 5-78 (Ranuda Somarathne, 12.6 ov), 6-99 (Dunith Wellalage, 22.3 ov), 7-176 (Raveen de Silva, 36.6 ov), 8-204 (Sakuna Nidarshana Liyanage, 40.6 ov), 9-211 (Yasiru Rodrigo, 42.6 ov), 10-218 (Matheesha Pathirana, 45.2 ov) BOWLING O-M-R-W Sean Fischer-Keogh 9-0-56-3 Charlie Peet 6-0-30-0 Jack Jarvis 8.2-0-27-2 Oliver Davidson 8-0-50-2 Lyle Robertson 8-1-15-0 Rafay Khan 4-0-27-1 Jamie Cairns 2-0-13-0

SCOTLAND UNDER-19S INNINGS (TARGET: 219 RUNS FROM 50 OVERS) Charlie Tear †lbw b Daniel 17 Oliver Davidson lbw b Wellalage 15 Samuel Elstone c Somarathne b Wellalage 13 Tomas Mackintosh lbw b Pathirana 19 Jack Jarvis c de Silva b Wellalage 55 Rafay Khan c Somarathne b Wellalage 7 Lyle Robertson c Daniel b Sahan 14 Charlie Peet (c) b Wellalage 10 Christopher Cole run out (Daniel) 3 Jamie Cairns not out 1 Sean Fischer-Keogh lbw b Daniel 2 Extras (b 3, lb 3, w 16) 22 TOTAL (48.4 Ov, RR: 3.65) 178 Fall of wickets: 1-24 (Charlie Tear, 8.1 ov), 2-49 (Oliver Davidson, 21.4 ov), 3-57 (Samuel Elstone, 23.1 ov), 4-79 (Tomas Mackintosh, 29.2 ov), 5-103 (Rafay Khan, 35.1 ov), 6-151 (Lyle Robertson, 43.2 ov), 7-165 (Jack Jarvis, 45.3 ov), 8-170 (Christopher Cole, 46.6 ov), 9-175 (Charlie Peet, 47.5 ov), 10-178 (Sean Fischer-Keogh, 48.4 ov) BOWLING O-M-R-W Yasiru Rodrigo 4-1-6-0 Chamindu Wickramasinghe 4-1-22-0 Wanuja Sahan 10-2-33-1 Shevon Daniel 6.4-1-16-2 Dunith Wellalage 9-0-27-5 Sadisha Rajapaksa 2-0-3-0 Raveen de Silva 8-0-37-0 Matheesha Pathirana 5-0-28-1

included two boundaries and six towering maximums. He changed the entire mood of the game as he showed both aggression and class in his innings.

However, when his innings were brought to an end, it was a little too late for Sri Lanka.

Sri Lanka’s next match will be against Australia in Basseterre on January 17 2022.

Fischer-Keogh clean up the rest

CLASSIFIED ADS

Raveen de Silva was the only other Sri Lankan batsman to make an effort, as his 49-ball 30 proved vital.

However, Sean Fischer-Keogh wrapped up the Lankan innings as

Next Match

FOR SALE Tee Shores, Form Boards, Few Ply Boards and some 6” x 6”, 8” x 8”, 5” x 5” Lumbers. Must sell. Going cheap. Contact 501 3706/609 6311.

SATURDAY, JANUARY 15, 2022

GUYANATIMESGY.COM

ICC Under-19 World Cup…

23

Australia too hot to handle as West Indies' batting crumble

ing one to the wicket-keeper for a golden duck off seamer Tom Whitney.

The classy Teddy Bishop also came and went cheaply, top-edging a short-ball for five. The Aussies chipped away and sent back Shaqkere Parris for four with the score on 12-3 after 5.1 overs.

Skipper Ackeem Auguste partnered Rivaldo Clarke, and the duo rebuild the innings with some classy shots along the ground in their 95-run partnership. Clarke was then dismissed for a 42-ball 37 at 107-4 after 21.5 overs.

The skipper then continued to show his class, Layne is cleaned up at Providence (Brandon Corlette photo) but he watched his partner Giovonte Depeiza fall for a

By Brandon Corlette at Providence duck. The left-hander Auguste departed the crease at 112he scorching sun was blazing from a glorious sky, and 6 when he was removed by his opposite number Connolly.

Auguste stroked eight elegant fours in his 57. After Australia were too hot to handle for the West Indies at the Guyana National Stadium at Providence. In Johann Layne (12) was sent packing at 131-8, the score the first match of the ICC Under-19 Cricket World Cup, of 150 seemed a million miles away. However, McKenny Australia cruised to a six-wicket win with 31 balls to spare. Clarke began to hit the ball to all parts of the Providence Teague Wyllie's solidity ensured the visitors chased ground. He slammed three mighty sixes, and played some innovative shots as well. While entertaining the down 170. the fiWest Indies were rocked for 169 all out in 40.1 overs, small gathering at Providence, he was with skipper Ackeem Auguste, again top-scoring with 57. nal man dismissed, for 29 from 35 Australia then replied with 170-4 off 44.5 overs, with Wylie balls, which was decoratcarrying his bat in his solid 86. Auguste was rock solid, but ed with three sixes and the Aussies kept chipping away at the total.

Earlier, West Indies U-19 won the toss and elected to bat first on a surface that looked good.

The second ball of the match saw two Guyanese Matthew Nandu edgfours.

Number 11 batsman Onjae Amory survived for 11 balls, and did not get

T

on with the score on 5-1 in 2.4 overs.

Isaac Higgins was caught behind off a low catch for nine, as Australia were reduced to 21-2 in 7.5 overs.

Onjae Amory produced an arm-ball and bowled Connolly for 23. Wyllie and Radhakrishnan then dropped anchor, adding 75 runs together. Wyllie played some steady shots in his level-headed 86 from 129 balls. His top innings included eight fours.

Campbell Kellaway made an unbeaten 10 from 22 balls as the match ended with a no-ball after 44.5 overs. Paceman Layne, Shiva Sankar, Amory and Nandu had one wicket each.

West Indies will now play Scotland on Monday January 17 in St Kitts and Nevis. India and South Africa will be playing at Providence today, Saturday January 15, while Ireland and Uganda will play at Everest from 9:00h local time.

Wyllie carried his bat for the Aussies

GCB congratulates Sir Clive Hubert Lloyd on knighthood Some of the faces in the red stands (Brandon Corlette photo)

SCOREBOARD WEST INDIES UNDER-19S INNINGS (50 OVERS MAXIMUM) Shaqkere Parris lbw b Salzmann 4 Matthew Nandu c †Snell b Whitney 0 Teddy Bishop c †Snell b Whitney 5 Rivaldo Clarke † c Higgins b Radhakrishnan 37 Ackeem Auguste (c) c Kellaway b Connolly 57 Giovonte Depeiza lbw b Connolly 0 Anderson Mahase b Radhakrishnan 6 Johann Layne b Radhakrishnan 12 McKenny Clarke c Radhakrishnan b Whitney 29 Shiva Sankar c & b Connolly 7 Onaje Amory not out 0 Extras (b 2, lb 2, nb 1, w 7) 12 TOTAL (40.1 Ov, RR: 4.20) 169 Fall of wickets: 1-1 (Matthew Nandu, 0.2 ov), 2-12 (Teddy Bishop, 4.3 ov), 3-12 (Shaqkere Parris, 5.1 ov), 4-107 (Rivaldo Clarke, 21.5 ov), 5-109 (Giovonte Depeiza, 22.6 ov), 6-112 (Ackeem Auguste, 24.1 ov), 7-124 (Anderson Mahase, 27.4 ov), 8-131 (Johann Layne, 31.1 ov), 9-145 (Shiva Sankar, 36.2 ov), 10169 (McKenny Clarke, 40.1 ov) BOWLING O-M-R-W Tom Whitney 8.1-2-20-3

William Salzmann 5-1-19-1 Aidan Cahill 3-0-13-0 Harkirat Bajwa 7-0-48-0 Nivethan Radhakrishnan 10-0-48-3 Cooper Connolly 7-1-17-3 AUSTRALIA UNDER-19S INNINGS Corey Miller b Layne 0 Teague Wyllie not out 86 Isaac Higgins c †RA Clarke b Sankar 9 Cooper Connolly (c) b Amory 23 Nivethan Radhakrishnan c Mahase b Nandu

31 Campbell Kellaway not out 10 Extras (lb 5, nb 1, w 5) 11 TOTAL (44.5 Ov, RR: 3.79) 170/4 Did not bat: Aidan Cahill, Tobias Snell †, William Salzmann, Tom Whitney, Harkirat Bajwa Fall of wickets: 1-5 (Corey Miller, 2.4 ov), 2-21 (Isaac Higgins, 7.5 ov), 3-74 (Cooper Connolly, 17.5 ov), 4-149 (Nivethan Radhakrishnan, 38.5 ov) BOWLING O-M-R-W Johann Layne 7-0-19-1 Shiva Sankar 7-0-34-1 McKenny Clarke 5-0-25-0 Onaje Amory 10-1-29-1 Anderson Mahase 7-0-29-0 Matthew Nandu 8.5-2-29-1

off the mark, but he was cheered by his team-mates and the fans every ball he survived. The final wicket yielded 24 runs, as the innings closed on 169 all out in 40.1 overs.

In the collective bowling effort from the Aussies, skipper Cooper Connolly bagged 3-17 while pacer Whitney had 3-20. The gifted and ambidextrous Tamil Nadu-born spinner Nivethan Radhakrishnan had 3-48. He has the ability to bowl sharp left-arm and right-arm spin.

Cautious Australia start In pursuit of 170, Australia began cautiously. Opener Corey Miller had no answer for the probing right-arm pacer Layne, who served up a maiden in the first over. He continued to bowl in the right areas, and was quickly rewarded when he made Miller chop

T

he President, Executives and Members of the Guyana Cricket Board (GCB) extend heartiest congratulations to Sir Clive Hubert Lloyd on being conferred with the prestigious title of knighthood.

This award is most deserving, as Sir Clive has contributed immensely to the promotion of cricket nationally, regionally and internationally as a player, captain, match referee, and outstanding ambassador of this noble game. His conduct has always been exemplary, and he served as a great role model for cricketers throughout the world.

Sir Clive played 110 test matches and scored 7515 runs at an average of 46.67. Also, he played 87 ODIs and scored 1977 runs at an average of 39.5. His crowning moment was lifting the Championship Trophy in the inaugural World Cup in 1975, when he scored a match winning 102 runs.

The GCB congratulates one of the most successful captains in the game of cricket.

This great son of the soil has indeed served Guyana and West Indies with pride and dignity.

Congratulations, Sir Clive.

SATURDAY, JANUARY 15, 2022

Sport is no longer our game, it’s our business

ICC Under-19 World Cup… Page 23

Australia displayed dominance in the field

Australia too hot to handle as West Indies’ batting crumble ICC Under-19 World Cup…

Page 22

Liyanage, Wellalage propel Sri Lanka to easy win over Scotland GUYANA TIMES - www.guyanatimesgy.com, email: news@guyanatimesgy.com, NEWS HOTLINE: 231-8063 EDITORIAL: 223-7230, 223-7231, 231-0544, 225-7761 SPORT: sport@guyanatimesgy.com SALES AND MARKETING: 231-8064 - marketing@guyanatimesgy.com - PRINTED AND PUBLISHED BY GUYANA TIMES INC.